The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) is set to host its annual Día De Los Muertos Festival on Sunday, November 3rd, offering a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage and culture. At the heart of the festivities will be a closing show featuring UTPB music students, who will be showcasing a diverse repertoire of musical styles, including the beloved mariachi genre.

Blending Genres to Create a Captivating Performance

The UTPB music students, under the direction of Jean Gomez, the university's director of orchestras and mariachis, have been meticulously preparing for this performance. Gomez has been working with the orchestra and mariachi groups separately, before bringing them together to rehearse the final show.

Honoring Mexican Heritage through Music

The performance will feature a blend of well-known and beloved songs, such as "Amor Eterna" by the legendary Juan Gabriel, as well as more challenging pieces that will showcase the diverse talents of the student ensembles. Gomez has emphasized the importance of celebrating the Mexican heritage through this musical showcase, stating, "It's just really impressive just to see the emotion, the energy and the passion the students put putting this concert together, which actually celebrates the Mexican heritage."

Bringing Together the Community

The Día De Los Muertos Festival is not just about the music, but also about bringing the community together. In addition to the closing show, the event will feature food vendors, raffles, and a community altar, providing a multifaceted celebration of Mexican culture and traditions.

Months of Preparation for a Captivating Performance

The preparation for this performance has been an ongoing process, with the students and faculty working tirelessly since the beginning of August to ensure that the final show is a resounding success. Gomez has emphasized the dedication and passion that the students have poured into this project, stating, "This show actually starts months before we actually start. At the beginning of August we are preparing all this music and today is actually our first time that we all get together."

A Diverse Musical Showcase

The closing show will feature a diverse array of musical styles, with the mariachi ensemble, orchestra, and other student groups coming together to create a symphony of sound that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. Gomez has promised that the audience can expect to be captivated by the "emotion, the energy and the passion" that the students bring to the stage.

A Celebration of Community and Culture

The Día De Los Muertos Festival at UTPB is more than just a musical performance; it is a celebration of community and culture. By bringing together the diverse talents of the university's music students, the event aims to create a shared experience that resonates with the local community and beyond, honoring the traditions and heritage of Mexico.