López Named Director of TAMIU Mariachi Interancional

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) Department of Fine and Performing Arts has named Robert M. López as its newly appointed director of TAMIU Mariachi Internacional.

A distinguished trumpeter, music educator, conductor, arranger, and arts advocate, López's career has spanned more than four decades. Throughout his professional life, he has dedicated himself to inspiring young musicians, preserving the rich traditions of mariachi jazz and orchestral music, and enriching the cultural life of South Texas through education, performance, and community service.

“Being introduced to the genre of mariachi in high school and having the opportunity to perform alongside many fellow enthusiasts has shaped my career not only professionally but spiritually.  The music network that has been, and continues to be, established is the driving force behind my continued growth. It is with great appreciation and passion that I nurture such a rewarding and memorable journey.  I’ve been taught and coached by many mentors, friends and artists, which allow me to continue to seek and discover creative aspects of the art in all genres of music,” said López.

He noted, “After a thirty-four-year-long career, I feel I am now able to be a mentor, teacher and coach to the up-and-coming generation of musicians and future artists. I’ve had the great opportunity to experience and enjoy the level of talent that exists in South Texas. Furthermore, I am equally amazed to see students continue to deliver quality performances and attain individual accolades even as professional musicians.

López previously served as adjunct professor of Trumpet at the University from 2001 to 2013 and as director of the Mariachi Internacional program. His work emphasized technical excellence, musical artistry, and authentic mariachi performance, while his arrangements and transcriptions showcased student musicians' talents.

“The TAMIU Mariachi experience will provide an opportunity for growth, appreciation, and success to the students beyond their high school years. Whether experienced in mariachi or not, I would like to encourage students to explore, experience, learn, and perform this wonderful cultural genre by registering and participating in the TAMIU Mariachi Internacional,” said López.

A graduate of Texas A&I University with a Bachelor of Music degree, López began his teaching career in 1990 after earning his Texas All-Level Music Certification. His passion for music education led him to serve as Assistant Director of Bands at King High School in Corpus Christi before joining Martin High School in Laredo, where he helped develop award-winning concert and marching bands; the Redd Jazz Band; and the Mariachi Los Tigres Del Sur ensemble.

In 1994, López joined Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts, where he spent nearly three decades as Trumpet and Horn Instructor before retiring in 2023. During his tenure, he instructed countless students in trumpet performance, musicianship, and ensemble techniques while preparing them for Texas Music Educators Association auditions, University Interscholastic League competitions, and collegiate music programs. He also conducted the school’s Philharmonic Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and the acclaimed SoundTown Jazz Ensemble, producing annual fundraising galas and coordinating numerous school and community events.

As a professional performer, López has built an extensive career as a freelance trumpeter and recording studio musician. His recording credits span studios across Texas, Tennessee, Florida, California, and Mexico, and he has collaborated with numerous artists in jazz, mariachi, Latin, orchestral, and commercial music. He has also performed with respected ensembles including the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra, Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra, Victoria Symphony Orchestra, The Latin Breed, and numerous professional mariachi groups throughout South Texas.

López has been a valued musical leader in theater, serving as orchestra conductor for the Laredo Theater Guild International since 2013. His conducting credits include productions of Hairspray, Shrek, The Who’s Tommy, Beauty and the Beast, In the Heights and more.

His dedication to excellence has earned numerous honors, including Laredo ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year, the Laredo Chamber of Commerce School Bell Award, Texas A&M International University’s Extra Miler Award, and multiple Director’s Awards from Vidal M. Treviño School of Communications and Fine Arts.

Outside the classroom and concert stage, López actively serves his community. He has served as Music Director at Christ Worship Center, Music Advisor for Smiles from Heaven, and regularly performs at patriotic ceremonies, veterans’ commemorations, and civic events throughout the region.

For additional information about the Mariachi Internacional TAMIU, contact the department of Fine and Performing Arts at 956.326.2654,  visit offices in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, 217, or click on https://www.tamiu.edu/coas/fpa/mariachi.shtml

A proud member of The Texas A&M University System, TAMIU provides a world-class educational experience to students from throughout South Texas, Northern Mexico, and beyond.

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