Figueroa to lead Hays CISD Mariachi Program

Staff Reports

Hays CISD has announced the selection of Victor Figueroa as the district’s new mariachi program director. The award-winning Mariachi program has long been a point of pride for the district.

The decorated Figueroa, a Texas State University graduate, is returning to the area from his most recent job as the high school mariachi assistant director for McAllen High School.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Figueroa to the Lobo family and community,” said Lehman High School Principal Karen Zuniga. “He brings high energy, excitement, and a competitive spirit. And, he’s committed to continuing the legacy of excellence for our cherished mariachi program.”

Figueroa will start in Hays CISD at the end of January and will be based at Lehman High School. However, the mariachi program extends into several middle schools and Figueroa will support them as well.

As the assistant mariachi director at McAllen High School, Figueroa was part of a program that has won state University Interscholastic League (UIL) competition six times. Prior to that, he was the mariachi director at Barnes and A.J Briesemeister Middle Schools in the Seguin Independent School District.

Additionally, he taught as a clinician at Texas Lutheran University and at a variety of secondary schools throughout Texas.

“Mr. Figueroa has a unique blend of teaching experience and performing with professional ensembles that will greatly benefit the Lehman High School mariachi students, and the entire vertical team,” said Hays CISD Fine Arts Director Patty Moreno. “We are excited to welcome him to Hays CISD!”

Mr. Figueroa has performed professionally for more than 15 years with groups like Grammy-nominated Mariachi Los Arrieros Del Valle, Mariachi Los Trovadores, Mariachi Rayos Del Sol, and Mariachi Nuevo Royale, among many others. Throughout his professional experience he has performed all over the world including Mexico, Europe, and China.

Figueroa holds an Associates of Music degree from Texas A&M Kingsville and a Bachelor of Music from Texas State University. Awards for students under his direction include: Medal of Distinction Maestro Award National Winners, six consecutive UIL sweepstakes, two UIL outstanding performers, a special invitation to be feature performers at the Texas Music Educators Association annual convention, and six Texas Association of Mariachi Educators state championships.