By hosting its annual Mariachi Festival-Competition, CABE is taking the lead in the state of California as bilingual music educators to create a presence for Mariachi as part of the state’s culture. We live in a majority Latino/a state, but our culture is not yet seen as an asset, nor is it celebrated for its richness and beauty. 

Through celebrating Mariachi in a manner that promotes excellence and mastery, CABE is creating a platform that preserves the rich culture, art, and tradition by supporting and expanding Mariachi education in our schools. 

Participation in youth Mariachi gives students a sense of significance, belonging, and pride, and includes them in the legacy of the Mariachi they are joining. The positive culture created by a quality Youth Mariachi promotes the tenets of Social Emotional Learning and instills transferable, marketable skills. It increases musical prowess, bilingualism, and retention in schools.

Mariachi brings families together as it is rooted deep into the rich cross-cultural (Spanish— French—Italian-African—Moorish—Indigenous) traditions which celebrate major life events like baptisms, weddings, and end-of-life celebrations. 

Mariachi is intergenerational, increases family bonds, and promotes parent participation in schools. CABE takes the lead in PRESERVING the art and culture of the Mexican Mariachi heritage.