This week’s guest on bigcitysmalltown is Michael Acevedo, an educator, musician and associate professor in UTSA’s School of Music. Of particular interest is Michael’s work as director of Mariachi Los Paisanos. Anyone who has attended a home game of the Roadrunners football team has been treated to an on-field halftime performance of Mariachi Los Paisanos, its members dressed in full mariachi traje, or costume. As a longtime aficionado of the Mexican folkloric music tradition.

During this podcast, Michael will shed light on the remarkable journey and the profound effects Mariachi Los Paisanos has had on both the music industry and cultural heritage. Get ready to unlock a new level of appreciation for this iconic mariachi ensemble.

Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Michael's musical journey began in a family of musicians, where he honed his skills playing various instruments and singing in church. As a first-generation college graduate, he pursued his love for music by earning a degree in music education and a master's in trumpet performance. Michael's dedication to preserving and promoting the mariachi tradition has led him to UTSA, where he continues to inspire and educate students while sharing the rich cultural heritage of mariachi music.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:36 - Appreciation for Mariachi Los Paisanos

00:01:08 - History of the Mariachi Program

00:02:09 - Michael's Background and Family Story

00:07:28 - Education and Career

00:14:37 - Mariachi Instruments in Mexico

00:15:53 - Mariachi as a Career Path

00:16:51 - Performing in the Alamodome

00:19:39 - Mariachi at UTSA Football Games

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