Musicians

Jimmy K. Cuéllar
Director/Violin/Vocal

Jason Franco
Vihuela/Vocal

Max Lara
Guitar/Vocal

Eduardo Rodriguez
Guitarron

Richard Ramos
Trumpet/Vocals

Aaron Holguin
Trumpet

Sebastian Gonzalez
Trumpet

Ernesto Lazaro
Violin/Vocal

Mizael Peña
Violin/Vocal

Daniel Cortez
Violin 

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar

stands out as a recognized and dynamic Mexican traditional music groups today. Rooted in the rich heritage of mariachi and guided by a modern vision that bridges tradition and innovation, this ensemble has captivated audiences across both national and international stages. Over the years, Mariachi Garibaldi has proudly represented Mexican folk music, sharing its vibrant repertoire and energy with the world.

Founded in Bakersfield, California, Mariachi Garibaldi emerged in a community where Mexican music forms a vital part of the social fabric, especially among migrants. Its founder, Jaime Cuéllar, handed over the reins to his son Jimmy K. Cuellar, who began his musical journey at a young age, surrounded by the sounds that accompany celebrations and daily life in Mexican families living in the U.S. The name “Garibaldi” pays tribute to Mexico City’s iconic Plaza Garibaldi—a legendary gathering place for mariachi musicians and a living symbol of popular tradition.

Driven by his passion for music and education, Jimmy K. Cuéllar continues to share and preserve the art of mariachi, while also innovating for future generations. From its beginnings, Mariachi Garibaldi has focused on rigorous training for its members and delivering musical quality comparable to the best groups in Mexico. Mariachi Garibaldi is distinguished by the richness and diversity of its repertoire. The group performs timeless classics such as “El Son de la Negra,” “La Bikina,” “Guadalajara,” and “Cielito Lindo,” as well as contemporary adaptations and collaborations with artists from other genres. Their versatility is also reflected in their instrumentation, which honors mariachi tradition—violins, trumpets, guitarrón, vihuela, guitar, and occasionally harp—while embracing innovative arrangements.

The ensemble is known for its elaborate vocal harmonies, skilled musicianship, and expressive performances, all of which convey the emotion and passion inherent to Mexican music. Each Mariachi Garibaldi performance is a lively show, immersing audiences in a whirlwind of joy, nostalgia, and cultural pride. Beyond the stage, Mariachi Garibaldi is deeply committed to music education and the preservation of Mexican culture abroad. By collaborating with schools, universities, and cultural organizations, the group promotes mariachi learning among young people from diverse backgrounds. These educational efforts have helped cultivate new generations of musicians—not just as performers, but as ambassadors of Mexican identity.

The group also participates in workshops and masterclasses, building bridges between experienced musicians and those just starting in the genre. Jimmy Cuéllar’s educational legacy is evident in his private institution Cue Music Inc., in creating performances celebrating Mexican music traditions also promoting Mexican folklorico dance. Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar has brought their music to major international stages, performing at renowned festivals and cultural events in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Europe, where diverse audiences have celebrated them. Notable appearances include the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival in Guadalajara, the Louise M. Davis Symphony Hall in San Francisco, California, the Charles W. Eisemann Center for the Performing Arts in Richardson, Texas, and The Soraya in Northridge, California.

The group has also collaborated with well-known artists such as Lila Downs, Aida Cuevas, Pedro Fernández, and Angela Aguilar, including non-mariachi artists such as pop star Camila Cabello and Armenian pop star Lilit Hovhannisyan, further expanding their reach and prestige. They have received numerous nominations and awards from both the music industry and cultural institutions, recognizing their artistic contributions and social impact. In recent years, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar has taken bold steps to introduce mariachi to new audiences. Their collaborations span a wide range of genres, including pop, jazz, and classical music, resulting in creative fusions that showcase the genre’s versatility and richness. One standout project is their work with the pop star Camila Cabello during her performance on Tiny Desk of her original song “La Buena Vida" where mariachi intertwines with pop and various Latin flavors in a tribute to the diversity of Latin experience in the United States. The mariachi has also performed with symphony orchestras, breaking barriers and bringing the traditional Mexican sound to impactful symphonic formats.

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar has released several albums expressing their musical vision and love for mariachi. Their discography includes tributes to great Mexican composers, collections of sones and popular songs, and live recordings of their most memorable performances. Each album reflects their respect for tradition and their constant search for new forms of artistic expression. Their productions are renowned for their exceptional musicianship, innovative arrangements, and compelling performances. Through these recordings, the group has reached listeners of all ages and nationalities. With their last production, “La Bohemia”, being released in 2025.

In today’s digital era, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar has skillfully utilized online platforms to share their music and connect with new audiences. Streaming services, social media, and video channels have made their repertoire and performances accessible worldwide. With videos, live streams, and online educational content, the ensemble continues its mission of sharing the richness of Mexican music and inspiring new generations to keep the mariachi legacy alive.

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar is far more than a musical group: they are a bridge between cultures, a school of life, and a driving force in the preservation and evolution of mariachi. Their dedication, passion, and ability to innovate without losing sight of tradition have made them a benchmark both within and beyond Mexico. Looking ahead, the group aims for new challenges: exploring further artistic collaborations, nurturing new generations of musicians, and solidifying their presence on the world’s most prominent stages. With every note, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar reaffirms that music is a universal language that unites hearts and crosses boundaries.

Press

"The generous program of 13 numbers, several of them tributes to departed legends such as Selena and Juan Gabriel, displays Mariachi Garibaldi’s powerful voices. The troupe’s multi-instrumentalists switch with seeming effortlessness from fever-paced violins to mellow horns to various forms of guitars."             - Janice Steinberg, San Diego Story

"Camila Cabello's new song, “La Buena Vida,” features the California-based outfit, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. The snappy tune finds Cabello belting a kiss-off over a swift rush of strings, horns, and guitars." 
- Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone

"They are amazing musicians. The vocals were outstanding. The Mexican extended falsettos performed by several of them were great.  Mariachi Garibaldi was equal in caliber to any classical string orchestra performing with operatic singers. Their musicianship and presentation was impeccable, well-styled and executed. The pizzicato passages by all three violinists were over the top."            
- Tom Green, President
Gila Valley Arts Council