Ismael Hernandez embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of 8, apprenticing with his father, Chato Hernández, in Mariachi los Jilgueros as a vihuelist. A pivotal moment arrived at 18 when he relocated to Los Angeles, California, where Mr. José Hernández and Mariachi Sol de México welcomed him as a violinist. Subsequently, he joined Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano, honing his skills over a remarkable 25-year career. Encouraged by Nati Cano, Ismael later established his own ensemble, Mariachi Tierra Querida de Ismael Hernández.

Julián Torres is a groundbreaking Mexican-American singer from Hawthorne, CA, recognized as the first mariachi artist signed to Death Row Records. Discovered by producer Fredwreck in 2020, he is known for blending traditional mariachi with a modern style, performing at major venues like Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood Bowl.

David Lizarde is a middle school music teacher with the Paramount Unified School District and holds a Master’s degree in Education from California State University, Dominguez Hills. With more than 20 years of experience in music education, he has dedicated his career to inspiring students through the power of music. His musical journey began with violin studies and later flourished in mariachi performance, leading to three decades of performing alongside talented musicians and artists. A proud resident of Downey, David is honored to serve as an adjudicator for Downey’s 3rd Mariachi Music Festival.