First Mariachi Ensemble Established

The new SDSU Mariachi Ensemble is set to hold auditions this August thanks to collaboration between San Diego State University School of Music and Dance, Compact for Success and a Presidential Leadership Fund grant from the Campanile Foundation.

For several years, SDSU students have expressed interest in a mariachi program on campus. Several current students have the experience to form the nucleus for this new ensemble.

Embracing Mariachi heritage

The new ensemble will provide continued studies for student mariachi musicians, open the genre to novice players as interest grows and a beginner mariachi ensemble is established, and allow SDSU to further embrace the richness of our region’s diversity, creative endeavors and changing demographics.

“The Mariachi Ensemble is another step in our vision to provide culturally rich program offerings, and opportunities to engage and collaborate with other programs at SDSU,” said Donna Conaty, director of the SDSU School of Music and Dance.

“We are pleased to partner with Compact for Success Director Lou Murillo to provide this enriching musical program for all SDSU students as well as community engagement through public performance.”

The SDSU Mariachi Ensemble will reside in the curriculum of the School of Music and Dance, which will provide rehearsal space and administrative support.

Kevin Miguel Delgado, associate professor of music and ethnomusicology, will oversee the program.  Mark Fogelquist, whose master's thesis in ethnomusicology from UCLA was the pioneer work on mariachi music in the English language, will direct the ensemble. 

About Mark Fogelquist

From 1973 to 1993 Mark Fogelquist directed Mariachi Uclatlán, a highly respected professional group based in the Los Angeles area. Fogelquist has established successful and award-winning mariachi programs in Wenatchee, Washington and closer to home in Chula Vista, California.

During his last three years in Washington, Fogelquist organized Mariachi Northwest, a five-day conference which continues today.

Fogelquist was the California Music Educators Association's Multicultural Music Educator of the year in 2005 and serves on the MENC national advisory board for mariachi music education.

Sponsors Needed

Sponsors are still needed to fund the ongoing costs of the SDSU Mariachi Ensemble including the purchase of “traje” traditional clothing, and instruments.  For more information contact Donna Conaty, Director of the SDSU School of Music and Dance.