A journey through the heart of high school mariachi
“Going Varsity in Mariachi” has finally made its way to Netflix after a successful festival run, and it’s poised to captivate a broad audience. This documentary, which delves into the world of Texas high school mariachi band competitions, is a delightful surprise that transcends its seemingly niche subject matter.
The unexpected world of high school mariachi
In Texas, where high school football often dominates the conversation, over 100 public schools also compete fiercely in statewide mariachi band competitions. The premier teams typically hail from the Rio Grande Valley, a region along the US-Mexican border known for its rich cultural heritage.
However, not all teams are on equal footing. Mariachi Nuevo Santander from Roma High School is a powerhouse, known for its flashy attire and impressive musicianship. But directors Sam Osborn and Alejandra Vasquez chose to focus on the underdogs: Mariachi Oro from Edinburgh North High School, a low-income district with limited resources.
The underdog story
Despite the odds, Mariachi Oro has managed to secure its share of trophies and acclaim over the years. During the 2021-22 school year, covered by “Going Varsity in Mariachi,” the challenges are even more daunting. Band director Abel Acuña is in the process of rebuilding the team with several new members, including violinists, trumpeters, and a novice guitarrón player.
Acuña expresses cautious optimism about his reconfigured lineup but acknowledges the long road ahead. The specter of COVID-19 looms large, adding an extra layer of suspense. The filmmakers subtly highlight the risks without directly addressing the elephant in the room: what happens if a band member contracts the virus?
The personal stakes
The young band members of “Going Varsity in Mariachi” are more focused on scoring victories than avoiding contagion. Bella, the charismatic violinist and team captain, sees music as her ticket to a scholarship and a future in pharmaceutical studies. Abby, another violinist, dreams of attending Texas State University to gain independence from her close-knit family.
Then there’s Drake, the guitarrón player who struggles with dedication, often missing practices to spend time with his new girlfriend. His journey is a poignant reminder of the personal challenges these students face.
The coach’s burden
Acuña, the dedicated band director, admits to feeling burned out after years of single-handedly doing the work of multiple people. While he is generally empathetic and encouraging, he doesn’t shy away from tough-love criticism. When Mariachi Oro ranks near the bottom of a preliminary competition, he reminds his players that they still have a job to do.
Capturing unguarded moments
Directors Osborn and Vasquez achieve a fly-on-the-wall intimacy with their subjects, capturing unguarded moments that are both affecting and amusing. Mariah and Marlena, two openly queer girls in Mariachi Oro, worry about potential homophobic backlash but bravely attend the senior prom together. Abby’s driving lessons with her anxious father provide a humorous interlude, while the scene where Acuña calls Drake’s mom to inform her that her son is temporarily out of the band is cringe-worthy in its intensity.
The music and the musicians
The music in “Going Varsity in Mariachi” ranges from mariachi standards like “Mexico Lindo y Querido” and “Volver, Volver” to newer compositions for the competitions. The filmmakers make it clear that this documentary is not just about the music but about the musicians. As one character notes, ”They don’t think of themselves as high school students trying to play mariachi music. They think of themselves as mariachi players.”
Watch the trailer
For a glimpse into this captivating documentary, check out the Going Varsity in Mariachi trailer.
“Going Varsity in Mariachi” is a testament to the resilience and passion of these young musicians. It’s a story of overcoming obstacles, personal growth, and the power of music to bring people together. Whether you’re a fan of documentaries, music, or inspiring underdog stories, this film is a must-watch.