The mariachi program at Fox Tech needs help raising funds for a Brownsville competition, emphasizing the trip’s educational value for students.
SAN ANTONIO — The mariachi program at Fox Tech is looking to raise funds for an upcoming competition. Mariachi Director David Zamarripa said this trip would be of great value for his students. He said many of them haven’t traveled out of the city.
The students of the program make up the Fox Tech campuses. Maya Aparicio is part of Mariachi Bonito Tech-Alitlan. She said being a part of mariachi has changed her life.
“I think it has really brought me out of my shell,” she said. “Because I am surrounded by people who are all trying to work together to make music.”
Zamarripa is one of their leaders of the program.
“It is going to be my 28th year,” he said. “I have been there a long time.”
He said the students put in the work and it is paying off.
“It is just a matter of grit and working hard,” he said.
Two weeks ago at UIL, the group won sweepstakes.
“Super insanely exciting,” Aparicio said. “It’s our first time ever doing that.”
The students want to keep growing and play at another competition in Brownsville. But, they need money to get there.
“We are asking for any donation,” the director said. “It goes straight to the students. Transportation alone the bus is like $5,000. The hotel is $4,000.”
Zamarripa said this competition is outside of what the school district would pay for.
“Some of these kids don’t have enough money just to travel or to eat at home sometimes,” he said.
Zamarripa and Aparicio said these extra activities would be a big benefit.
“Personally, I want them to experience other professors, other directors, other musicians,” Zamarripa said.
The group has raised about $3,000 to $4,000, but they need more. The competition is next month. The SAISD foundation is helping them with a fundraising page. If you would like to help, click here.