Today we’d like to introduce you to Hector Hernando.
Hector, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The idea of starting my own mariachi came from a deep sense of responsibility rather than a business plan. I grew up surrounded by mariachi music—coming from generations of mariachi musicians—and from a very young age I understood that mariachi is not just music, but culture, history, and identity.
When I began performing in Dallas, I noticed that while there were many groups, very few were truly committed to preserving the authenticity of traditional mariachi music. I was especially concerned with how Mexican folklore was being represented, both musically and culturally, and that concern stayed with me for years.
In 2015, I decided to form my own group with a clear purpose: to pursue excellence through authentic mariachi interpretation, discipline, and respect for the tradition. From the beginning, my focus was on building something meaningful—not just musically, but professionally as well.
Over time, this vision grew into a project we began taking very seriously. As the group evolved, we made the decision to formally establish ourselves as a registered LLC. For us, this step represented accountability, structure, and a long-term commitment—not only to our clients, but to our musicians and to the cultural responsibility we carry.
While we are based in Southeast Dallas, our work extends throughout the entire DFW Metroplex and beyond. As opportunities grew, we began traveling outside of Texas to share our music with other communities, including performances in Oklahoma in cities such as Marietta and surrounding areas. These experiences have reinforced our purpose and allowed us to represent mariachi music with the same level of professionalism and respect wherever we go.
I strongly believe in giving opportunities, especially to young or emerging musicians, because we all start somewhere. However, those who become part of Mariachi Mi Tierra are individuals who show a genuine desire to improve, to study the tradition deeply, and to understand the responsibility that comes with representing mariachi music.
What began as a personal mission has now become an established cultural project—one that continues to grow with intention, professionalism, and respect for the tradition that inspired it.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The growth has not been entirely smooth, and many of the challenges come from the nature of the mariachi profession itself. Mariachi music is highly complex, with intricate dynamics, stylistic demands, and an extensive repertoire that requires constant study and discipline. Mastering the tradition is a long-term commitment, and that alone presents a significant challenge.
Another major obstacle has been building and maintaining a cohesive team in an industry that lacks formal regulation. Without standardized training or certification, levels of preparation and professionalism vary widely. This has made it difficult to find musicians who share the same dedication to continuous improvement and respect for the tradition.
Over time, the rapid growth of mariachi groups in the region has added another layer of difficulty. When the group first started, there were far fewer ensembles. Today, the number has multiplied significantly, increasing competition and making it more challenging to maintain consistency, identity, and quality.
In any creative field, growth and competition can sometimes bring negative dynamics. Within the mariachi community, misunderstandings, egos, and occasional negativity among peers have at times made collaboration and mutual support difficult. Navigating these realities while staying focused on professionalism and artistic integrity has been an ongoing challenge.
Despite these obstacles, each experience has reinforced the importance of structure, discipline, and shared values. Rather than allowing challenges to divide or discourage us, they have strengthened our commitment to setting higher standards and preserving the dignity and respect that mariachi music deserves.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Mariachi Mi Tierra De Dallas TX LLC is a professional mariachi ensemble focused on authentic interpretation, musical discipline, and long-term artistic development. Our work goes beyond performance—we invest deeply in preparation, rehearsal, and continuous learning, working with musicians who show genuine interest in mastering the tradition.
We specialize in traditional mariachi repertoire performed with attention to detail, dynamics, and stylistic accuracy. At the same time, we operate with full professionalism as a formally established LLC, handling our work responsibly and transparently. For us, honoring the tradition also means honoring the profession.
One of our proudest accomplishments has been sharing the stage alongside internationally recognized mariachi ensembles, not as opening acts, but as part of the same concert program. These experiences—including performances with Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán and Mariachi Sol de México—validated years of discipline and reaffirmed our commitment to excellence.
We are also proud of the culture we have built within the group. We prioritize musicians who are willing to study, grow, and respect the responsibility that comes with representing mariachi music. Developing committed musicians has been one of the most meaningful aspects of our journey.
Currently, we are working on two album projects. One focuses on sacred and church music, presenting well-known pieces arranged entirely for mariachi, with original arrangements adapted for liturgical and ceremonial settings. These projects reflect our desire to contribute creatively to the tradition while remaining rooted in its essence.
What sets Mariachi Mi Tierra apart is our balance of authenticity, professionalism, and vision. We are building something meant to last—a cultural project that respects the tradition, supports its musicians, and elevates how mariachi music is presented and perceived.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
At the heart of everything we do is respect—for the tradition, for the music, and for the communities that welcome us. Mariachi music has the power to connect generations, cultures, and emotions, and we feel a deep responsibility to honor that legacy every time we perform.
We are grateful to the musicians, mentors, families, and communities throughout the DFW Metroplex and beyond who have supported this journey. Their trust and encouragement continue to shape our work.
As we move forward, our focus remains on growth with intention—through education, collaboration, and creative projects that contribute positively to the tradition. We hope our work encourages others to value mariachi not only as entertainment, but as a meaningful cultural art form.
Pricing:
- Our pricing varies depending on the type of event, duration, number of musicians, and location. Each performance is customized to meet the specific needs of the client. We focus on offering professional, high-quality mariachi services while ensuring transparency and fair pricing based on the scope of each event.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mariachimitierradedallastx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariachimitierradedallastxllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariachimitierradedallastx
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhernando/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mariachimitierradedallastxllc
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mariachimitierradtxllc?_r=1&_t=ZT-92QKUKzbfeI
Image Credits
Photos by Mariachi Mi Tierra
