Four student performers from McAllen ISD have qualified to perform at the 31st Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National Vocal Competition.
Allyson Contador and Isabel Garza-Johnson of McAllen High qualified along with Leann Vela of James “Nikki” Rowe High and Travis Middle School’s Joshua Gamez-Cuellar. Only 20 high school spots and 10 middle school spots were available during the nationwide auditions.
“They delivered spectacular performances to secure their spots among the best of the best in the largest and most competitive mariachi vocal competition of its kind,” McAllen High Mariachi Oro Instructor Alex Trevino said. “We are extremely proud of them.”
They will compete in the semifinals December 4-5 at San Antonio’s Lila Cockrell Theatre. The finals are set for Dec. 6. There are thousands of dollars in scholarships and performance opportunities for the top-placing students.
The first round of auditions took place Oct. 29 (via video submissions).
About McAllen ISD
McAllen ISD is a 2025 winner of the state’s highest rating of an “A” grade and a 2025 winner of the state’s Postsecondary Readiness Distinction. The district is home to 31 campuses and approximately 19,500 students. To learn more about McAllen ISD’s schools and programs, contact Student Outreach at 956-687-MISD (6473).