Through the month of September, we commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, the ultimate celebration of our contributions to influence, sports, entertainment, food, culture, and music. At South San Antonio ISD, we pride ourselves on creating an environment for students to immerse themselves in Hispanic culture. At Shepard Middle School, sixth through eighth grade students have the exciting opportunity to join the mariachi group, where they learn the history of hispanic music, how to play an instrument, and what it means to be the heart of their campus. 

A mariachi band is composed of guitarrón, vihuela mexicana, harp, guitar, violin, trumpet, and a leading singer. Mr. Nicolas Serenil, District Mariachi Director, emphasizes the significance of Mariachi music while teaching his students how to work together, creating seamless sounds of music. 

Students enter the program with a range of experience, but Mr. Serenil is dedicated to meeting each student at their level and accommodating their needs. His ultimate goal is for his students to be fully prepared to transition into the high school mariachi band at South San Antonio High School. 

Eighth grade student Derek Estrada expressed his interest in mariachi that began in his home life.  “My brother was a part of a mariachi group, and that inspired me to join one and learn how to play the violin,” Derek explained. As an eighth grader, Derek shares he feels a sense of responsibility to be a helping hand and guide his younger bandmates in the right direction. 

Music festivals, winter and spring concerts, pep-rallies, and birthday celebrations are some of the ways students have the opportunity to perform and honor their culture. In mariachi music, there’s a common theme that is presented throughout a variety of songs. Shepard Middle School Mariachi Student Roman Martinez explains, “My favorite songs to sing are about love, and I like that the musicians express their emotions through their lyrics.” Songs like El Pollito, Cariño, and Como Quién are some fan favorites and bring the audience to life during performances.

Sergio Sierra, Shepard Middle School Mariachi Student, felt connected to the mariachi music as he attended a Fiesta-themed event. “When I saw the mariachi perform, I saw how they got the crowd up to dance. I wanted to learn how to do that for other people through music.” Sergio’s inspiration transpired into a reality, and through Shepard Middle School, he has learned how to play the guitarrón and showcase his skills through his talent. 

Shepard Middle School Mariachi Student, Derek Estrada, also shares what excites him about the program. “My favorite thing about being a part of the mariachi group is I’m constantly learning new things,” Derek exclaims. “New songs, new sounds, and new ways for our group to work together.” Mr. Serenil communicates through the use of visual signals to guide the group so students can work together harmoniously. Signals such as instruments entering and exiting songs, speed, tempo, and sound are ways Serenil propels his students to work in unison. 

Mariachi students expressed their love for their instruments and how personal music can be for them. “I learned how to play my guitarrón pretty quickly, but after playing it for 3 years at practice and events, it surprises me how much I continue to learn about my instrument,” Serigio conveyed. Derek adds, “Your instrument becomes a big part of your life, and you create a close bond with the music you play.”

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, the stories of students like Derek, Roman and Sergio exemplify the impact of music—not just as an art form, but as a bridge connecting generations, fostering teamwork, and instilling the importance of celebrating your culture.

These students take pride in expressing love, joy, and community through their performances, and South San Antonio ISD is more than proud to celebrate Shepard Middle School Mariachi Program.