Thanks to the guidance of our newest music teacher, Mr. Alejandro Tapia, the mariachi class and Mariachi Club at Hoover are thriving!
Mariachi is not just about music, it’s a harmony full of smiles and contagious laughter. Students in Mariachi demonstrate both dedication and passion for the music they make. They go the extra mile showing their commitment by rehearsing during lunch breaks and continuously improving their music skills by attending the club on Thursdays after school from 3:45 to 4:45.
The Mariachi Cardenale undertake numerous field trips throughout the school year. They share the signature sound and spirit of Mexico through the booming harmonies of Mariachi music at various events. Recently they kicked off the SDUSD Sunsets Bites event, which featured a student-designed food truck. But, out of all their performances this year there’s one that stood out the most.
On Saturday, April 20th, Mariachi Cardenale took over the stage at The Rady Shell in Jacobs Park as the opening act for the VAPA District Concert. Mariachi Cardinale musicians were incredibly grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at The Rady Shell. It was an experience that these Cardinals will cherish forever. Many talented musicians dream about performing there but not everyone gets the chance to make it a reality. Mariachi Cardenale is thrilled to represent Hoover’s diverse musical talents and extremely appreciative of the VAPA Foundation for this unique opportunity.
Students in mariachi look up to Mr. Tapia, as their director, is deeply respected and a role model for many of his students. He pushes students to do their best at every rehearsal while also encouraging them to make mistakes as he believes, “Do. Or do not. There is no try.”
Mr. Tapia has brought a new genre of music to light for many students. Though some students are not familiar with the language, culture, or music they have grown to love the class just as much. He has done extraordinary things throughout his first year as a teacher at Hoover, we are thrilled to see what else he brings to the music department.
