Hey there amigos, this is Haydn Vitera, founder and lead artist of Mariachi Rock Revolution (MRR). Today, I’d like to share with you why our upcoming Electrified Experience show on September 14th at the Long Center is about so much more than just music. It’s about a mission, a purpose, and a deep love for community empowerment.
The Show: A Fusion of Tradition and Rock
Our upcoming concert isn’t just any performance. Mariachi Rock Revolution takes the timeless spirit of mariachi music and electrifies it with the raw power and stage presence of arena rock. Joining us is the University of Texas Mariachi Ensemble, Mariachi Paredes de Tejastitlán. For me, this is a full-circle moment. Back in the early ’90s, I came to Austin to study at UT, where I initially majored in accounting but was also involved in the Butler School of Music and the UT Symphony Orchestra. I didn’t even know UT had a mariachi group back then, or I would have jumped right in! Now, I’m so excited to be collaborating with Mariachi Paredes and bringing it all back to where my own journey began.
We’re also honored to feature the legendary Rick Trevino, Grammy-winning Austin icon and the most notable Latino country artist of the last 30 years. Following in the footsteps of Freddy Fender and Johnny Rodriguez, he’s been a trailblazer since the ’90s. Having him support this event is truly special for me, since it was Rick that gave me my “big break” in the music industry. In 1997, he hired this unknown and untested 22-year old fiddle player for his touring band. At the time, Rick was on his third #1 radio hit and had his pick of well-known and seasoned musicians. He most certainly did not have to take a chance on me, and I am forever grateful to him for the incredible opportunity he gave me to live out my dreams. It truly changed my life!
Why We’re Doing This: More Than Just a Concert
This concert is presented by my nonprofit, the Vitera Cares Music Foundation. Our mission is to empower school and community music programs through education and innovative live performances. The proceeds from this event will directly benefit Mariachi Para Todos, a wonderful free community music program run by Austin Soundwaves. With the funds we raise, we’ll be helping them buy new instruments and mariachi trajes for their young beginners’ group. Imagine little violins, tiny guitars, and kids in their first mariachi outfits—it’s going to be amazing to see.
A Personal Journey and a Bigger Purpose
In my younger days, pursuing music was all about the usual dreams: fame, recognition, and all the perks musicians chase. But at 51, I’ve realized it’s not just about what music can do for me—it’s about what it can do for others. Music gave me confidence and a strong sense of identity as a shy kid growing up, and I’ve seen it transform the lives of countless young musicians through programs like Mark Wood’s Electrify Your Symphony, where I’ve mentored kids for a decade. They step on stage, play a solo, and suddenly realize they can do anything. That’s the real magic.
In the end, this is a performance with a purpose. We’re here to lift up a local music program, and hopefully many more across the country in the future. Music education is often the first thing cut when budgets shrink, but it’s vital for kids’ confidence, teamwork, and personal growth. We want to share that power of music with everyone, and we can’t wait to do it together. It’s all about the music!
Join us live September 14th at Electrified Experience 2025 to be a part of the music and the mission!