Sweet Melodies from Mariachi Director, David Zamarripa
As the mariachi director, David Zamarripa has the privilege of nurturing the talents of his students in each mariachi class.
During Teacher Appreciation Week, we are proud to highlight educators who not only inspire but also innovate. Among them, Mr. Zamarripa and Alicia Covarrubias are honored recipients of an SAISD Foundation Bright Idea Grant, bringing a wave of excitement within the mariachi program at ALA/Fox Tech/CAST Tech campuses in San Antonio ISD.
“We are receiving $5,000 for better quality instruments,” Mr. Zamarripa shares. His dedication is reflected in the achievements of his students, as evidenced by the recent achievements of the Junior Varsity Mariachi, sweeping accolades for their outstanding performances including overall, vocal and trumpet.
With 28 years of teaching experience and a graduate of Fox Tech HS himself, Mr. Zamarripa’s love for music runs deep. This is showcased in his commitment to music education.
“Music has always been a part of me,” he reflects. From civil engineering to computer networking, his path eventually led him back to his true calling — teaching mariachi. Combining music with technology, Mr. Zamarripa’s class has a foundation of innovation, where wireless technologies and recordings combine to enhance students’ learning experiences.
The days of sharing instruments among multiple students are no more; now, each student has their own, paving the way for a new era of musical excellence. Even with significant progress, the need for quality instruments remains. “The quality of instruments is not the best,” Mr. Zamarripa acknowledges. “With better instruments, kids will continue loving the music but also enhance the music quality.”
For him, the mariachi program is more than just notes on a page; it’s a community united by a shared love for music and a desire to enrich lives.
“We are here to enrich our music for the kids,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of leadership, trust, and teamwork present throughout the program.
As the melodies of mariachi resonate through the halls, Mr. Zamarripa’s impact extends far beyond the classroom, touching hearts and bridging generations. “I don’t teach mariachi for the rest of their lives,” he reflects. “I want to make sure that we can really trust each other and bring positive outcomes to the audience and the people.”
In the world of education, Mr. David Zamarripa conducts a masterpiece, nurturing talent, fostering community, and inspiring generations to come. We are proud to invest in our San Antonio ISD educators. This allows us to create more opportunities for teachers to challenge their students and provide the quality education they deserve.