Workshops

The annual five day conference begins with workshops in Mariachi Music, Voice and Folkloric Dance. Classes are instructed under the direction of Mariachi Cobre in the five instruments of Mariachi Music, Guitar, Guitarron, Vihuela, Violin and Trumpet, at the skill level of the student. Students in Folkloric Dance classes from beginning dance to the Masters level, are instructed under the artistic direction of Ballet Folklorico Masters.

Specialty Workshops allow students to study special interest topics. Stage Performance Skills focus on the basics of stage presence, appearance, and techniques for individuals and group performance. Ensemble Techniques for groups encourages cohesive synchronized playing. Other learning experiences include a Luthier Workshop, featuring instrument repair and maintenance. The colorful history of Mariachi Music and Folkloric Dance is interwoven throughout the workshop sessions.

Class Description and Availability

Stage Performance Workshop
Stage Performance Skills offers an interactive session focusing on the basics of stage presence and deportment, appearance, and techniques used to augment over all stage presentation. Professional New York stage performer and choreographer Isaac Quiroga will offer this valuable interactive and fun-filled session on a limited basis to groups and solo vocalists who have submitted auditions and been selected for the Student Showcase performance. For information on submitting auditions for this year’s Student Showcase see Student Showcase Auditions on the main page of this web site.


Pimentel Luthier Workshop
This hands-on session will feature world renowned Pimentel Family, makers of Pimentel guitars. Students will view and experience the many intricate steps in assembling a guitar. Students will gain a general knowledge and appreciation for instruments, and their maintenance. Attendance for this session will be scheduled by conference administration.

Mariachi Music and Dance History
Music and Dance students attend History of Mariachi Music and Ballet Folklorico Specialty Workshop instructed by Dr. William Gradante. Class content is related to workshop music and period of study, compostion, and choreography.


Advanced Masters Class
Back by popular demand, Maestro Rafael Zamarripa will present the Advanced Masters Class, to include creative and technical content.

Harp Class
Harp instruction will be offered at the workshops. See both Individual Registration and Group Registration on main page to register.

Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference Student Leadership/College Preparatory workshop
The Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference proudly presents the 2011 Student Leadership and College Preparatory workshops for LCIMC participants. Classes are geared towards all levels of high school students. Group directors may select two students per group for this seminar. Sign up online through Group Registration. Attendance instructions will be emailed to Group Directors upon receiving registration.

Peer leadership programs empower students to create positive change in their environments, are student-led, and thrive within communities that value and support the program in word and action. The LCIMC Student leadership workshop will provide potential student leaders with opportunities to refine and build upon their leadership skills, gain new knowledge, develop new attitudes, and gain experiential practice in their role as leaders.

This special session will last one hour in length and will expose Las Cruces Mariachi participants to important leadership and college preparatory skills. New Mexico State University personnel and students will conduct interactive presentations in which participants will be able to link the importance of ascertaining/enhancing leadership skills and a college education to music. The inclusion of both NMSU personnel and students will be key to this session. Participants will be provided information regarding what they should do to start preparing for college.

 

STAGE PERFORMANCES

Workshop participants enjoy performance opportunities in both impromptu and formal settings where they learn from their peers as well as their instructors. Students audition for performance at the Student Showcase Concert. A highlight of the workshops is the students' on-stage performance at the Spectacular Concert with world-renowned Mariachi Cobre and international artists.

 

Dance Workshop Period of Study: Celebration of 40 years of Mariachi Cobre

Dance Workshops

Folkloric Dance Workshops
Maestro Rafael Zamarripa, world renowned sculptor, painter, and general director/choreographer of the Ballet Folklorico  de la Universidad de Colima invites you to join us and celebrate Mariachi Cobre’s 40th Anniversary.  Sones such as “El Gavilan” and “El Jilguerillo” which have been signature pieces in Mariachi Cobre’s repertoire through the years will be the departing point for this year’s dance workshops.  The Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference  invites you to pack your best Charro outfit or Jalisco dress.  Con sombrero y rebozo en mano, join in the celebration!!!

 

The dance workshops will feature the continuation of the Tecnica Raza which develops coordination and movement fluidity under the guidance of Maestro Juan Carlos Gaytan. In addition, the Master Class under Maestro Zamarripa will continue with its unique style of open dialogue and conversation. The Masters Class will be open to group directors, assistant directors, teachers, choreographers or instructors. Register now to attend this special Masters level class. . Register now to attend this special Masters level class.

 

DANCE WORKSHOP COSTUME GALLERY HERE

 

DANCE Videos

Rafael Zamarripa and Tecnica RAZA

 

Ballet Folklorico Paso del Norte