Armando C. Gonzales Student Showcase
The Tucson International Mariachi Conference proudly presents The “Armando C. Gonzales Student Showcase.” Mariachi and Folklórico groups come together from many cities across the southwestern United States. Their parents, nanas, tatas, tios, tias, padrinos, friends and many family members proudly watch the students perform!
Students take the stage to show off their musical and dancing talents that they have learned in the previous days’ workshops. Student groups, each taking the stage for 9 minutes, perform to a delighted audience.
2026 Showcase Guidelines & Rules
Registration Requirements:
- Indicate on registration form if your group wants to perform in the Student Showcase
- Specify if you are a Folklorico or Mariachi group
- Identify your group level: Elementary, Middle School, High School, College, or Community Group
Selection Process:
- There will be a maximum of 20 groups selected (6 Folklorico and 14 Mariachi)
- Selection based on first groups to register and pay in full before March 30, 2026
- Groups must have minimum of 6 paid conference participants
- Assignments will be made once registration and payment are verified
Payment Requirements:
- Payment must be made by Paid PO, Check, Credit Card, or cash
- Full payment required before March 30, 2026 deadline
Judging:
- Judges are selected prior to Conference by the Showcase Committee
- No board member of the Tucson International Mariachi Conference can serve as judge
- In case of ties, judges will decide the winner
- Winners will be announced at end of Showcase
Performance Venues and Dates:
- Elementary/Middle School winners (both Folklorico and Mariachi): Fiesta Garibaldi at Jacome Plaza (Saturday, May 2, 2026, 10 am-10 pm)
- High School winners (both Folklorico and Mariachi): Espectacular Concert at Linda Ronstadt Music Hall (Friday, May 1, 2026, 7 pm-10 pm)
- College winners: Fiesta Garibaldi at Jacome Plaza (May 2, 2026, 10 am-10 pm)
Music Submission:
- Groups using recorded music must submit two USB copies to Conference office by April 15, 2026
- Please attach your group name and dance names in performance order to your USB
- Music must be professionally recorded for quality sound
Performance Time Limits:
- Total of 12 minutes allocated per group
- 1.5 minutes to enter stage
- 9 minutes to perform
- 1.5 minutes to exit stage
Tickets for the Showcase and Espectacular performances are only guaranteed authentic when purchased through the Tucson Convention Center (TCC) or Ticketmaster.com. Tickets for Mariachi El Canta and Fiesta Garibaldi are available exclusively through Eventbrite or at the event entrance.
