Mariachi Director Rolando Rivera uses his unique and superior adaptation skills to build groups from the ground up and adapt seamlessly to any ensemble placed before him. “This flexibility allows me to create strong foundations, foster growth and ensure that every group I lead reaches it highest potential,” he says.

Rivera has taught at different schools in the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) in the last three years. In 2023, he became the Estudiantina Director at World Languages Institute, overseeing a comprehensive program of several classes with a total enrollment of 145 students. Estudiantina is a traditional musical style that is rooted in Spain and popularized in Latin America. Rivera explains, “Estudiantina shares similarities with mariachi with two primary sections — Melodía (mandolins, occasional accordion) and Armonía (guitar and double bass, sometimes vihuela). The ensemble performs both choral and solo works.”

Rivera focused on unlocking the Varsity group’s potential by refining technique, strengthening music theory skills and establishing a culture of excellence. “To meet students where they were, I arranged music tailored to their abilities and interests, integrated audio technology and composition tools, and learned alongside them — developing my own skills on guitar, mandolin, accordion, bass and vocals,” he says. “This collaborative approach fostered confidence, adaptability and a strong foundation for success.”

In his second year, the Varsity ensemble earned superior ratings from all three judges, securing the school’s first Univeristy Interscholastic League (UIL) Sweekstakes trophy. “This achievement ignited a culture of excellence, motivating students to continue striving for success,” Rivera says with pride.

To prepare for his current position at Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School, Rivera’s first step was to build strong relationships with the community and parents. “Their support is essential for long-term success,” he explains. “Additionally, I have focused on establishing a positive and consistent culture from day one, setting clear expectations and promoting a strong work ethic to lay the foundation for excellence within the program.”

Rivera invested in his own musicianship by taking violin lessons and continuing to develop proficiency on every instrument within the mariachi ensemble. He also met and spoke to mariachi directors in the FWISD and other districts to share resources and knowledge as he embarked on his new position.

“Our campus has a rich Hispanic heritage, and the mariachi program will allow students to celebrate and connect with the cultural traditions their families hold dear,” Rivera says. “My goal is to build a program that is collaborative and well-supported, working alongside other directors to ensure mariachi becomes an integral part of our school’s music offerings.”

A vital aspect for mariachi success is selecting the right repertoire. “I focus on student ability and interest to ensure meaningful engagement. Each semester, students complete a Google form to suggest songs they would like to perform. This collaborative process empowers students to take ownership of the program and feel invested in its success.”

Beyond repertoire, Rivera creates performance experiences that connect students to cultural traditions. “For example, performing classics like ‘Volver, Volver’ in a public setting has a profound impact,” Rivera says. “Students recognize the deep cultural roots of the music and appreciate its authenticity.”

Rivera also emphasizes that the skills students learn in class extend beyond mariachi and “can apply to genres such as classical, jazz, Banda Sinaloense, Tejano, Sierreño, salsa and more. This broader perspective motivates students to engage fully, knowing that the benefits reach far beyond a single style,” he explains.

Rivera’s background in Mexican music — particularly as a freelance performer in Banda Sinaloense — has deepened his understanding of the theory and stylistic nuances within this repertoire. “Combining this experience with professional development and mentorship, I’ve been able to guide my students toward sustained growth, while continuing to learn and adapt as a director,” he says.