Marisa is extremely talented and
versatile. She plays various musical genres other than mariachi music and has been in many
bands including her own. she also has had the opportunity to play with many high-profile
artists including Tito Puente, Poncho Sanchez, and Arturo Sandoval. In the mariachi world,
Marisa is the most respected female guitarrón player in the United States.
She has been playing
mariachi music for over 10 years. Among her greatest mariachi moments are performing in
the Living Legends Show with Lola Beltran, Lucha Villa, and Miguel Aceves
Mejía.
She has also enjoyed performing for George Harrison of The Beatles. Prior to
forming MM2K,
Marisa performed in the Fresno mariachi circuit for 5 years. She also studied and
performed a few concerts with Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano and performed for 6 years
with Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. As MM2K’s fearless leader Marisa sees great
things for the group in the future. She says, "I see CD recordings, giving workshops
to future women mariachis, performing at international festivals, TV shows and other
events. I believe this type of mariachi group is necessary to give other women, and people
in general, the opportunity to see that women can be successful at performing mariachi
music also. I’d like to think of ourselves as role-models for future women
mariachis."
Birth date: 12/7/69
Birthplace: Fresno, CA
Instrument: Guitarrón
Role in MM2K: Group director and Armonía Section Leader
Years playing mariachi music: 12
Other instruments played: Electric bass, guitar, vihuela, and percussions
Other genres played: Jazz, Salsa, Afro-Cuban, Blues
Educational Experience: B.A. in Liberal Studies. Clear professional multiple subjects
credential. Is currently working on a Resource Special Education Credential that will lead
to a Master’s degree.
Educational Goal: Master’s degree
Career Goal: Education/Professional Musician.
