The University of North Texas Music Education Department is building its presence in the Latino community through mariachi music, says music professor Donna Emmanuel, coordinator of the university’s first mariachi camp.

Thirty middle and high school students from Arlington, Garland and Grand Prairie arrived this week to explore the history of mariachi bands from UNT musicians. Many of the students leading the camp mentored in the school districts during the academic year.

Emmanuel said she is striving to build relations between UNT and public schools.

“Research shows that it im­proves the retention rate for Latino students, and there is a higher chance that once they are exposed to a university, the chances of them pursing higher education is a lot higher,” Emmanuel said.

In addition to improving their instrument skills on traditional mariachi instruments such as the trumpet, guitarron, vihuela and violin, students will also experience college life by touring the campus and meeting with UNT students.

This is also the first year
the University Interscholastic League will add competitions in traditional mariachi and experimental ensemble, according to the league Web site.

The Latino population keeps growing, and UNT wants to ensure that it is responsive to and educated about the culture in all aspects, Emmanuel said.

“North of Austin, mariachi music programs are very rare, and it is my hope that we’re training future teachers that will specialize in mariachi,” she said.

UNT’s mariachi camp continues this week, closing with a concert at noon Saturday.

—Arlinda Arriaga

When: noon Saturday

Where: Lyceum in the University Union on the UNT campus

Details: Free concert caps off UNT’s weeklong mariachi camp.