SR 06-26-2018 13D 13.D
June 26, 2018
Council Meeting: June 26, 2018 Santa Monica, California
1 of 1
CITY CLERK’S OFFICE - MEMORANDUM
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Denise Anderson-Warren, City Clerk, Records & Elections Services
Department
Date: June 26, 2018
13.D Request of Councilmembers Himmelrich and Vazquez that the Council
allocate $22,000 to the Santa Monica Malibu Education Foundation as
startup funds for the implementation of a Mariachi Education Program. The
initial pilot program will begin at Edison Elementary and will offer students
an educational experience that would expand their cultural awareness and
promote a lifelong appreciation for this genre of music.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
SANTA MONICA-MALIBU UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
MARIACHI IMPLEMENTATION PROPOSAL
THREE-YEAR PLAN
RATIONALE
It is the goal of the Santa Monica-Malibu USD to implement a Mariachi Education Program with
the objective of providing students of various ethnicities an exceptional educational experience
that would expand their cultural awareness and promote a lifelong appreciation for music. The
program would offer students, many of them from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, a high-
quality musical experience of a multigenerational tradition rooted in a sound, sequential,
standards-based curriculum. Additionally, students would develop sensitivity, understanding, and
respect for peoples from a broad spectrum of ethnic-cultural backgrounds.
Program Goals
Students will gain an understanding of the historical development of mariachi music
Students will explore and experiment with different musical styles and techniques to further
their understanding of improvisation and musical interpretation
Students will gain confidence in their abilities as individual musicians and as members of a
group
Students will participate in high-quality musical experiences from an established musical
tradition
Students will gain an understanding of musical form
Students will gain and develop a lifelong appreciation of and interest in music
Students will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, and a sense of personal
responsibility as they increase their performance skills
Objectives
To develop an appreciation for musical form and its development
To understand regional and historical variations of mariachi music
To develop the ability to successfully demonstrate a variety of mariachi skills and techniques
using appropriate instruments
To incorporate traditional rhythms used in mariachi music into musical performances
To increase awareness of the literal and emotional content of music
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
To assist SMMUSD in the implementation phase, the following three-year plan and partnership
with Music Education Consultants is being proposed for consideration.
I. Course Scopes and Goals for the following Mariachi Courses
Introduction to Mariachi
Beginning Mariachi
Armonia (Guitar, Vihuela, Guitarron)
Melodia (Violin, Trumpet)
Mariachi Ensemble I
Mariachi Ensemble II
Advanced Mariachi Ensemble (III)
II. Recommendations for Implementation
A. Edison Elementary 5th grade for schools in the JAMS Pathway, Spring 2018
B. John Adams Middle School 2019–2021 Curriculum Sequence
C. John Adams Middle School 2019–2021 Instrument Needs
D. Santa Monica High School 2022–2025 Curriculum Sequence
E. Santa Monica High School 2022–2025 Instrument Needs
III. 2018–2025 Budget Information
A. Budget Overview
B. Equipment
C. Text Books and Musical Material for Entry Level Mariachi Courses
E. Supplies
F. Uniforms
G. Professional Development
H. Budget Detail
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
COURSE SCOPES AND GOALS
INTRODUCTION TO MARIACHI
This one-year course is designed as a study in music fundamentals, with each student given the
opportunity to learn and participate through singing, listening, reading, notating, and creating
while playing the guitar and vihuela. Emphasis has been placed on providing meaningful
introductory music-making experiences representative of the mariachi genre.
Course Goals:
1. To demonstrate fundamental notation skills
2. To demonstrate correct vocal and instrumental tone production
3. To demonstrate correct vocal and instrumental performance technique
4. To perform an introductory level of mariachi repertoire
5. To demonstrate appropriate concert etiquette for mariachi performances
6. To critique performances utilizing the five elements of music as well as the specific
characteristics of mariachi music
7. To demonstrate knowledge of future career, performance, and audience opportunities
8. To demonstrate the joy of music-making through the mariachi genre
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
BEGINNING MARIACHI
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for the student who is interested in learning to play a mariachi
instrument including violin, trumpet, guitar, vihuela and guitarron. It includes the development of
skills necessary to become independent as a musician. This course concentrates on the
development of note-reading skills, aural skills, singing skills, rhythmic patterns, intonation, and
tonality inherent to the mariachi genre. A progression of fundamental and technical proficiency is
expected.
Course Goals:
1. To develop age-appropriate individual singing and playing skills leading to independence as
a mariachi musician
2. To develop the singing and playing skills necessary to create an ensemble sound in the basic
mariachi styles
3. To identify and respond appropriately to music notation
4. To develop the ability to play with correct intonation
5. To demonstrate an understanding of the form and structure of the basic mariachi styles
6. To demonstrate nuances inherent to the basic mariachi styles
7. To demonstrate reasonable progression in fundamental and technical proficiency
8. To develop skills to compose and arrange simple melodies and harmonies in one of the basic
mariachi styles
9. To recognize the relationship between mariachi and ballet folklorico
10. To recognize the relationship between simple mariachi styles and the historical significance
of their roots from the various states of Mexico
11. To discriminate with regard to quality of performance and composition through the
demonstration of basic listening skills
12. To prepare students for introductory mariachi performance experiences
13. To develop attitudes enabling continued participation in musical experience throughout life
Prerequisite: None
Middle School: Offered in 2019 for 6th and 8th grades only
Offered in 2021 for 8th grade only
Course transitions to Armonia and Melodia Classes in 2019
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
ARMONIA
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for students with no previous mariachi guitar, vihuela or guitarron
experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing
these instruments on a beginning level. Students will be able to demonstrate a variety of the basic
mariachi styles, vocal and instrumental techniques and basic note -reading skills required to
become a successful musician. Areas of concentration include correct posture, aural skills,
intonation, flat picking, rhythmic patterns, chord study, melody construction, tonality inherent to
mariachi music, musical forms, tablature notation, improvisation and limited performing
experience. The importance of sustained group and individual effort is stressed. A progression of
fundamental and technical proficiency is expected.
Course Goals:
1. To develop correct posture, hand and instrument position
2. To identify the parts of the guitar, vihuela and guitarron and appropriate string designations
3. To demonstrate proper care and maintenance of the guitar, vihuela and guitarron
4. To develop an awareness of correct tuning of the open strings
5. To develop the ability to play with accurate intonation
6. To understand the history and origin of the guitar, vihuela and guitarron
7. To demonstrate a knowledge of music fundamentals
8. To recognize form in simple mariachi styles
9. To demonstrate basic chords, scales, and bass lines in first position
10. To demonstrate proper strumming, finger style, and flat picking techniques used in simple
mariachi styles
11. To incorporate the traditional manicos used in simple mariachi styles into musical
performances
12. To develop an awareness of position playing, basic scales, and simple transposition
13. To demonstrate an awareness of the function of tablature as it relates to the guitar
14. To improvise using short melodic phrases, variations, and basic chord progressions
15. To demonstrate an awareness of the relationship between music and other arts disciplines
16. To demonstrate and awareness of the regional and historical significance and variations of
mariachi music
Prerequisite: None
Middle School: Offered in 2019 for 6th grade only
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MELODIA
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for students with no previous experience playing violin or
trumpet. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing these
instruments on a beginning level. Students will be able to demonstrate a variety of the basic
mariachi styles, vocal and instrumental techniques and basic note -reading skills required to
become a successful musician. Areas of concentration include correct posture, aural skills,
intonation, rhythmic patterns, melody construction, tonality inherent to mariachi music, musical
forms, improvisation and limited performing experience. The importance of sustained group and
individual effort is stressed. A progression of fundamental and technical proficiency is expected.
Course Goals:
1. To develop correct posture, hand and instrument position
2. To identify the parts of the violin and trumpet
3. To identify the appropriate string designations of the violin
4. To develop an awareness of correct tuning of the open strings
5. To develop the ability to play with accurate intonation
6. To demonstrate proper care and maintenance of the violin and trumpet
7. To understand the history and origin of the violin and trumpet
8. To demonstrate a knowledge of music fundamentals
9. To recognize form in simple mariachi styles
10. To demonstrate basic scales in first position on the violin
11. To develop an awareness of transposition in the relationship between the violin and trumpet
12. To improvise using short melodic phrases and variations
13. To demonstrate an awareness of the relationship between music and other arts disciplines
14. To demonstrate and awareness of the regional and historical significance and variations of
mariachi music
Prerequisite: None
Middle School: Offered in 2019 for 6th grade only
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI ENSEMBLE I
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for the purpose of allowing students to play in an ensemble which
specializes in beginning level Mariachi ensemble literature. The importance of sustained group
and individual effort is stressed. Students will earn a fine arts credit required for high school
graduation. This course may be repeated for credit.
Course Goals:
1. To develop age-appropriate individual singing and playing skills leading to independence as
a mariachi musician
2. To develop the singing and playing skills necessary to create an age-appropriate ensemble
sound in the basic mariachi styles
3. To identify and respond appropriately to music notation
4. To develop the ability to play with accurate intonation
5. To demonstrate an understanding of the form and structure of the basic mariachi styles
6. To demonstrate nuances inherent to the basic mariachi styles
7. To demonstrate reasonable progression in fundamental and technical proficiency
8. To develop skills to compose and arrange simple melodies and harmonies in one of the basic
mariachi styles
9. To recognize the relationship between mariachi and ballet folklorico
10. To recognize the relationship between simple mariachi styles and the historical significance
of their roots from the various states of Mexico
11. To discriminate with regard to quality of performance and composition through the
demonstration of basic listening skills
12. To play in a limited number of performances
13. To develop attitudes enabling continued participation in musical experience throughout life
Prerequisite: None
High School: Offered annually beginning in 2022
Middle School: To be offered beginning in 2020
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI ENSEMBLE II
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for the purpose of allowing students to perform in an ensemble
which has a selected membership and which specializes in performing more complex level
Mariachi ensemble literature implementing playing techniques beyond what is provided in the
Mariachi Ensemble I Course. A variety of performing experiences will be provided. Students will
earn a fine arts credit required for high school graduation. This course may be repeated for credit.
Course Goals:
1. To demonstrate facility in singing and playing an armonia or melodia instrument while
promoting age-appropriate performance skills necessary for independence as a mariachi
musician
2. To further develop the singing and playing skills necessary to create an age-appropriate
ensemble sound in more complex mariachi styles beyond what was provided in the Mariachi
I course
3. To demonstrate the ability to respond appropriately to more complex musical notation
4. To demonstrate an understanding of the form and structure of the more complex mariachi
styles
5. To demonstrate nuances inherent to the more complex mariachi styles
6. To further develop skills to compose and arrange melodies and harmonies in one of the more
complex mariachi styles
7. To demonstrate knowledge of the various mariachi styles and their relationship to the fine
and performing arts traditions from Mexico
8. To demonstrate the ability to evaluate performances through more advanced listening skills.
9. To perform for a variety of occasions and in a variety of venues
10. To continue to develop attitudes enabling participation in musical experience throughout life.
11. To explore career opportunities in the field of music
Prerequisite: Audition or Teacher Approval
High School: To be offered beginning in 2022
Middle School: To be offered beginning in 2021
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
ADVANCED MARIACHI ENSEMBLE (III)
Course Scope:
This one-year course is designed for the purpose of allowing students to perform in an ensemble
which has a selected membership and which specializes in performing advanced mariachi
ensemble literature implementing advanced playing techniques beyond what is provided in the
Mariachi Ensemble II Course. The student will receive direction in solving complex interpretation
problems and be provided with an opportunity to further develop improvisational skills. The
importance of sustained effort and practice is stressed for technical accuracy. Emphasis will be
placed on performance. Students will earn a fine arts credit required for high school graduation.
This course may be repeated for credit.
Course Goals:
1. To demonstrate advanced singing and pla ying skills through performance
2. To prepare students for mariachi performance experiences outside of the school environment.
3. To demonstrate the singing and playing skills necessary to create a unified ensemble sound in
the advanced mariachi styles beyond what was provided in the Mariachi II course
4. To perform the complex musical notation found in the advanced mariachi styles
5. To demonstrate an understanding of the form and structure of the advanced mariachi styles
6. To interpret nuances inherent to all styles of mariachi music in performance
7. To compose and arrange melodies and harmonies in one of the more advanced mariachi
styles
8. To demonstrate knowledge and appreciation for the diverse mariachi styles and their
relationship to the cultural traditions of Mexico
9. To apply specific musical criteria in evaluating their own musical performance and those of
similar or exemplary models
10. To perform extensively for a variety of occasions and demonstrate the ability to adapt to a
variety of settings and venues
11. To realize all of the components of a successful performance
12. To continue to explore career opportunities in the field of music
Prerequisite: Audition or Teacher Approval
High School: To be offered beginning in 2023
Middle School: To be offered beginning in 2021
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
EDISON ELEMENTARY
JOHN ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL
CURRICULUM SEQUENCE
School
Year
5th 6th 7th 8th
2018-19 Summer of 2018-
FIVE SMMUSD
Elementary music
teachers attend the
Mariachi
Conference in Las
Vegas from 7/9-13
to receive PD.
Fall 2018- Begin
sharing
information about
Spring semester
launch of the Intro
to Mariachi class
at Edison.
Teacher:
Established Teacher
Hourly Rate and
Mariachi lead
identified thru
MEC.
Class:
Introduction to
Mariachi
Textbook: Canta
Mariachi Canta-
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
Hal Leonard
Publishing.
Teacher edition is
$39.95 and
teachers can print
all parts from the
teacher edition or
online for students.
All 5th graders in
the JAMS pathway
invited.
Location: Edison
(after school) one
day a week from
3:30-4:30.
2019-20 Class:
Introduction to
Mariachi
Textbook: Canta
Mariachi Canta-
Hal Leonard
Publishing.
All 5th graders in
the JAMS pathway
invited.
Course: Beginning
Mariachi
Armonia, Melodia
Separately and
combined as need
on same days
example: M/W from
3:30-5:30pm)
2020-21 Class:
Introduction to
Mariachi
Textbook: Canta
Mariachi Canta-
Hal Leonard
Publishing.
Course: Beginning
Mariachi
(Armonia, Melodia
Separately and
combined as need
on same days
example: M/W from
3:30-5:30pm)
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
Course: Mariachi
Ensemble I
“Course name could
be Mariachi Oro or
Plata” (Mariachi
Silver or Gold)
Target Enrollment:
30-35
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
All 5th graders in
the JAMS pathway
invited.
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
2021-22 Class:
Introduction to
Mariachi
Textbook: Canta
Mariachi Canta-
Hal Leonard
Publishing.
All 5th graders in
the JAMS pathway
invited.
Course: Beginning
Mariachi
(Armonia, Melodia
Separately and
combined as need
on same days
example: M/W from
3:30-5:30pm)
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
Course: Mariachi
Ensemble I
“Course name could
be Mariachi Oro or
Plata” (Mariachi
Silver or Gold)
Target Enrollment:
30-35
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
Course: Mariachi
Ensemble II
Target Enrollment:
30-35
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
- - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - -
Course: Advanced
Mariachi (III)
Ensemble
Target Enrollment:
15-18
Teacher: Mariachi
lead identified thru
MEC and
SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher
Hourly Rate)
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
EDISON ELEMENTARY
JOHN ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL
INSTRUMENT NEEDS FOR NEW COURSES ADDED
2019-20 Course: Intro to Mariachi Class
(Armonia and Melodia)
2 Sections (Total- 30-35)
New Instruments Needed
Notes
12 Violins- N/A 6 Violins
6 Trumpets- N/A 3 Trumpets
13 Guitars- $1378 6 Guitars Allocate extra funding to meet need
6 Vihuelas- $3690 6 Vihuelas Allocate extra funding to meet need
1 Guitarron- $966 1 Guitarron Allocate extra funding to meet need
2020-21 Intro to Mariachi Class
(Armonia and Melodia)
2 Sections (Total- 30-35)
Course: Mariachi Ensemble I
New Instruments Needed
12 Violins- N/A 12 Violins- N/A
6 Trumpets- N/A 6 Trumpets- N/A
13 Guitars 13 Guitars- $1378
6 Vihuelas 6 Vihuelas- $3690
1 Guitarrones 3 Guitarrones- $2898
2021-22 Intro to Mariachi Class
(Armonia and Melodia)
2 Sections (Total- 30-35)
Course: Mariachi Ensemble I
New Instruments Needed
Course: Mariachi Ensemble II
12 Violins 12 Violins 12 Violins- N/A
6 Trumpets 6 Trumpets 6 Trumpets- N/A
12 Guitars 13 Guitars 13 Guitars- $1378
6 Vihuelas 6 Vihuelas 6 Vihuelas- $3690
1 Guitarron 3 Guitarrones 3 Guitarrones- $2898
*For full Equipment Standards Lists and Purchasing Information, refer to Budget Information
provided.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL
CURRICULUM SEQUENCE
School
Year
Open to Grades 9-12 Open to Grades 9-12 Open to Grades 9-12
2022-23 Course: Mariachi Ensemble I
(Armonia, Melodia Combined)
Target Enrollment: 30-35
Teacher: Mariachi lead
identified thru MEC and
SMMUSD music teacher/s
(Teacher Hourly Rate)
2023-24 Course: Mariachi Ensemble I
(Armonia, Melodia Combined)
Target Enrollment: 30-35
Teacher: Mariachi lead
identified thru MEC and
SMMUSD music teacher/s
(Teacher Hourly Rate)
Course: Mariachi Ensemble II
Eligible students chosen from:
FY13 HS Mariachi Ensemble I
FY13 MS Beginning Mariachi
Target Enrollment: 30-35
Teacher: Mariachi lead identified
thru MEC and SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher Hourly Rate)
Course: Advanced Mariachi
Ensemble (III)
(Could be implemented in FY15)
Target Enrollment: 15-18
Teacher: Mariachi lead identified
thru MEC and SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher Hourly Rate)
2024-25
and
2025-26
Course: Mariachi Ensemble I
(Armonia, Melodia Combined)
Target Enrollment: 30-35
Teacher: Mariachi lead
identified thru MEC and
SMMUSD music teacher/s
(Teacher Hourly Rate)
Course: Mariachi Ensemble II
Target Enrollment: 30-35
Teacher: Mariachi lead identified
thru MEC and SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher Hourly Rate)
Course: Advanced Mariachi
Ensemble (III)
Target Enrollment: 15-18
Teacher: Mariachi lead identified
thru MEC and SMMUSD music
teacher/s (Teacher Hourly Rate)
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL
INSTRUMENT NEEDS FOR NEW COURSES ADDED ACCORDING TO FY*
2022-23 Mariachi Ensemble I
1 Section in FY13 (30-35)
New Instruments Needed
Notes
12 Violins 12 Violins
6 Trumpets 6 Trumpets
13 Guitars 12 Guitars
6 Vihuelas 6 Vihuelas
6 Guitarrones 6 Guitarrones
2023-24 ADD: Mariachi Ensemble II
1 Section in FY14 (30-35)
New Instruments Needed
12 Violins 12 Violins
6 Trumpets 6 Trumpets
12 Guitars 12 Guitars
6 Vihuelas 6 Vihuelas
6 Guitarrones 6 Guitarrones
2024-25
or
2025-26
ADD: Advanced Mariachi
Ensemble (III)
1 Section in FY14 or FY15 (15-
18)
New Instruments Needed
6-9 Violins 6-9 Violins
3 Trumpets 3 Trumpets
2 Guitars 2 Guitars
2 Vihuelas 2 Vihuelas
2 Guitarrones 2 Guitarrones
*For full Equipment Standards Lists and Purchasing Information, refer to Budget Information
provided.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
MARIACHI PROGRAM
BUDGET OVERVIEW
Instrumentation
Recommendations for the purchase of instruments are based on the following standards for
mariachi ensembles.
Middle School Beginning Mariachi, Mariachi Ensemble I and Mariachi Ensemble II
Instrumentation for the classes in Middle School Beginning Mariachi, Mariachi Ensemble I, and
Mariachi Ensemble II are each made up of 12 violins, 6 trumpets, 12 guitars, 6 vihuelas and 6
guitarrones. This number of instruments will serve 30-35 students per class allowing for a few
extra instruments of each type so that students may choose their preferred instrument of study.
Armonia
Instrumentation for the Armonia class (one of two entry level mariachi courses at the middle level)
is made up of 20 guitars, 9 vihuelas and 9 guitarrones serving 30-35 students per class allowing
for a few extra instruments of each type so that students may choose their preferred instrument of
study.
Melodia
Instrumentation for the Melodia class (the second of two entry level mariachi courses at the middle
level) is made up of 18 violins and 9 trumpets thus serving up to 27 students per class.
Advanced Mariachi (III) Ensemble
Instrumentation for the Advanced Mariachi (III) Ensemble is made up of 9 violins, 6 trumpets, 2
guitars, 2 vihuelas and 2 guitarrones. This is a highly-selective ensemble which will serve up to
21 students.
Textbooks and Musical Material
As in all performance classes, a method book is the optimum way in which students learn to play
in the ensemble setting so a specific standards-based beginning mariachi method published by
Northeastern Music Publications is recommended. Also recommended is the companion book that
contains ten beginning mariachi selections based on the skills taught in the method book. Quality
student assessment materials as well as lesson plans are provided. Both resources will see the
beginning level courses through their entire first year of instruction.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
Supplies
Minimum recommendations for supplies are based on the chart below.
Sets of Violin Strings 1 set ordered annually for every two violins in the inventory
Shoulder Rests 1 ordered for each new violin at time of purchase plus 25% additional
to have extras on-hand
Sets of Guitar Strings 1 set ordered annually for every two guitars in the inventory
Sets of Vihuela Strings 1 set ordered annually for every two vihuelas in the inventory
Sets of Guitarron Strings 1 set ordered annually for every two guitarrones in the inventory
Bottles of Valve Oil 1 bottle ordered annually for every two trumpets in the inventory
Guitar/Vihuela Straps 1 ordered annually for each guitar and vihuela plus 50% additional
to have extras on-hand
Bass Guitar Straps 1 ordered annually for each guitarron in the inventory plus
25% additional to have extras on-hand
Finger Picks for Vihuelas 3 ordered annually for each vihuela in the inventory
Heavy Guitar Picks 100 ordered for each school annually
Uniforms
The moño is the characteristic tie of the mariachi performer and is instantly recognizable as such.
It is recommended that students work their way up to the honor of wearing the full traje (the
mariachi suit). Students are thus encouraged to provide a long-sleeved white shirt, black pants,
black socks and shoes in the early years. The budget provides for new moños to be purchased
annually for each student participating in the program.
The full traje may be purchased when ready to premiere that first Advanced Mariachi (III)
ensemble at the high school level. The Advanced Mariachi (III) students at the middle school
should be outfitted in
Basic Mariachi Uniform Middle School Advanced High School Advanced
Charro Shirts Full Traje (Mariachi Suit)
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
Ongoing Professional Development
The annual National Mariachi Workshops for Educators® (NMWE) is co-sponsored by West
Music, Inc., Yamaha Corporation, and Wenger Corporation with graduate credit offered through
VanderCook College of Music. It will be held the week of July 8, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada,
and will provide three (3) distinct levels of study. These levels are defined by the specific mariachi
styles to be studied which progress from easy to difficult along the continuum. In each of the three
levels, there will be a great deal of concentration on the playing of secondary and tertiary
instruments as determined by the need of the attendee. All participants will, however, have the
opportunity to perform on their primary instruments to sharpen characteristic stylistic nuances as
required by the various mariachi styles. Classes on care and repair of the mariachi instruments will
also be provided. The week will close with a concert performance featuring all participants playing
mariachi arrangements of the various styles studied.
Maestro Jose Hernandez, Director of Mariachi Sol de Mexico will serve as a featured presenter.
VanderCook College of Music will handle registration for all participants. Three (3) graduate
credits are being offered as an option for those who may be interested.
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
Expenditures Overview
2018-19 Expenditures Overview
Instruments (Special Conference Price if we take home from
conference) $8,564
5 Textbooks @ $39.95 each $200
Music $500
Supplies $1,500
Moños $1,000
Teachers
Elem -(Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 Elem music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week
from Tuesday, January 8 through Tuesday, May 28.
$5,500
Professional Development $5,238
Total $22,000.00
Grant amount requested $22,000.00
Grant funding to be managed by Santa Monica Education
Foundation
Tax ID:
95-3787674
2020-21 Expenditures Overview
Instruments $7966
5 Textbooks @ $39.95 each $200
Music $500
Supplies $1,000
Moños $500
Teachers
Elem - (Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 Elem music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week
JAMS- Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 SMMUSD music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week for the entire
year.
$17,000
Professional Development/Recruitment Assembly $4,000
Total $31,166.00
Collaborate with SMMEF and Council Member Vazquez fundraise $15,583.00
Grant amount requested $15,583.00
Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District
1651 Sixteenth Street - Santa Monica - California 90404-3891 - (310) 450-8338 - www.smmusd.org
Board of Education: Oscar de la Torre, Craig Foster, Jon Kean, Maria Leon-Vazquez, Laurie Lieberman, Ralph Mechur and
Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein
Ben Drati, Superintendent
Grant funding to be managed by Santa Monica Education
Foundation
Tax ID
95-3787674
2021-22 Expenditures Overview
Instruments $7966
5 Textbooks @ $39.95 each $200
Music $500
Supplies $1,000
Moños $500
Teachers-
Elem- (Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 Elem music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week
JAMS-
Mariachi 1- Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 SMMUSD music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week for the entire
year.
Mariachi 2- Mariachi Lead- $100 an hour)
3 SMMUSD music staff @ $50 an hour is $250 a week for the entire
year.
$26,000
Professional Development/Recruitment Assembly $4,000
Total $40,166.00
District Funded $40,166.00
Collaborate with SMMEF to fundraise 0
Grant amount 0
Grant funding to be managed by Santa Monica Education
Foundation
Tax ID
95-3787674