Local Elementary Student Claims Mariachi Award
Written by admin, Apr 26, 2011, 0 Comments
Courtesy Roberto Treviño,
Macdonell Elementary School second grade student, Javier Esquivel Jr., was named the Best Overall Mariachi Vocalist at the 9th Annual Dia Del Mariachi Competition. Esquivel captured first place in the Elementary Division during the competition last weekend in Alice, Tx.
According to Betty Escudero, Macdonell Elementary Music Teacher and Mariachi Sponsor, Javier had been honing his music skills in preparation for the competition. He first began by hearing the songs and then he learned the words and melody, so he can began to sing the song by phrases. Esquivel had also practiced his arm movements and facial expressions to prefect his performance.
“Every day I help him warm up his voice as well as implementing breathing techniques. It is important to know when to breath and when not to,” said Escudero. “We also worked on enhancing his projection skills, which he was a little reluctant.”
Esquivel’s love for music is evident as he continued to practice his skills at home every night with the assistance of his mother. “He loves to play the guitar. I told him if he practices his singing techniques at home that I would get him guitar lessons,” added Escudero. “Javier has been amazing and as promised he is getting guitar lessons courtesy of Rick Cortez, Music Instructor from the Vidal M. Trevino School of Communication and Fine Arts Magnet School.”
During the competition Esquivel competed against mariachi contestants from Houston, San Antonio, McAllen, Brownsville, Kingsville, Beeville, Zapata, Alice and other surrounding areas. Esquivel and the other talented students dressed in mariachi costumes while singing and playing “La Negra,” “Los Laureles,” “Volver” and many other selections.
“When the awards ceremony started and they announced that one of mine won the Overall Mariachi Best Vocalist in the Elementary Division, I couldn’t believe it,” said Escudero. “Only one elementary student could win and we LISD Took It!”
All winners from every division preformed in an evening concert and Javier opened the concert and was the only one to get a standing ovation. Esquivel is going to be showcased together with the Macdonell’s Rhythm & Style Orffestra at two Laredo Community College Concerts on April 29 and May 4.
