“Music is beautiful: the sounds, the rhythms you hear—it’s just special in the way you feel,” said Abby Adame. Adame plays violin for the mariachi group at DRHS. She enjoys mariachi because she has met new friends and always has fun playing. 

On campus, students can also play music with the band. Student, Ethan Brody is in the DRHS band and plays the drums. Music is important for Brody too. “You get to express your feelings through the songs you’re playing with your instrument,” Brody shares. This has motivated him greatly, and he has been in band for the past 3 years. 

Mariachi and band are similar in many ways. In both programs, you can learn how to read music. Plus, you get the opportunity to represent the school by playing at a variety of events. Like Adame said, many students can make new friends and meet other students by playing for mariachi or band. The main difference between the two is the style of music played. 

All students, in either program, will learn how to play an instrument. But, mariachi students focus on playing Spanish songs and special instruments while band students often play popular classics or other songs the band director provides. 

In all cases, it takes time to get the song down and play all together. Regardless of which program you choose, joining a musical program at DRHS is a great learning experience for everyone.