Mariachi del Sol
Springfield High School's Mariachi del Sol was created in 2008, under the direction of Christopher Holt, to fill the need of offering cultural music offerings to our diverse student body. Over our 15 years of existence, with an abundance of financial support from our community, we have had the honor to share the stage with groups like Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernandez, Mariachi Flor de Toloache, and Mariachi Herencia de México, while also performing up to 40 times a year in the Springfield and Eugene area for school, business, and community events. In addition, over the last seven years under the direction of music teacher Jon Bridges, the group has earned a number of awards, including the inaugural Springfield Arts and Cultural Awards Young Artist of the Year Award in 2022, becoming the first mariachi to qualify and perform in the OMEA State Chamber Ensemble Contest in 2023. The group was also featured on Good Morning America in the fall of 2023. The students are currently fundraising as they prepare to perform in the 2024 National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C.
Support SHS Mariachi Del sol Trip to Washington D.C.
The group has continued to grow and now includes 81 students in our beginning and advanced mariachi classes, and has added voice coach Jacob Steinberger as an additional director. Students in our advanced ensemble have auditioned and often are enrolled in the band, orchestra, or choir offerings as well. We are excited for even brighter days of making music!
What is Mariachi Music?
Mariachi music is a genre of regional Mexican music that dates back to at least the 18th century, evolving over time in the countryside of various regions of western Mexico. The usual mariachi group today consists of as many as eight violins, two trumpets and at least one guitar, including a high-pitched vihuela and an acoustic bass guitar called a guitarrón, and all players taking turns singing lead and doing backup vocals. Several vihuelas players of 2023-24 SHS Mariachi del Sol are pictured above.
How to Join the SHS Mariachi Band
Any student currently enrolled in Springfield High School has the ability to join Mariachi del Sol. Auditions for the advanced group are held at the end of each term. Students are able to join the beginning mariachi class during fall semester to learn the skills needed for the audition as well. While many of our mariachis have a musical background or speak Spanish, these skills are not required to join the beginning group. If you are interested in joining Mariachi del Sol, contact band director Jon Bridges for more information.
Mariachis for Your Event
Interested in hiring Mariachi del Sol to perform at your upcoming event?