A group of students is participating in a music class, practicing mariachi music. The instructor, seen from behind, is playing a guitar and wearing a plaid shirt. Several students seated in front of music stands are playing trumpets, while others in the background are playing guitars. The classroom setting includes lockers, chairs, and a sink area, indicating a school environment. One student wears a distinctive red mushroom hat.

Mariachi program debuts at Ruben Trejo Dual Language Academy

Brett Allbery

May 16, 2025

It was a bit of a whirlwind for Andres Martinez-Rocha, a first-year music teacher at Ruben Trejo Dual Language Academy, to establish a Mariachi music program this year.

With perseverance – and the support of Mariachi educators across Washington state, including at Eastern Washington University and from Audubon Elementary music teacher Daisy Cardona – Maestro Martinez-Rocha’s 6th and 7th grade students are preparing to debut what they’ve learned of the Mexican folk music tradition since receiving their instruments in January.

The TDLA Mariachi Ensembles will be performing at Stevens Elementary School's Multicultural Night on Thursday, May 29.