Getting personal with Marachi Reyna de Los Angeles

Julissa “Julie” Murrillo is one of the main leaders of one of the most popular group named, Marachi Reyna de Los Angeles. Marachi Reyna de Los Angeles is the first all female Marachi group since 1994. In addition, Marachi Reyna de Los Angeles had two performances on May 2 and 3 at California State University Monterey Bay’s World Theater for two consecutive years.

When Murrillo was 7 years old she was began to play the violin in an elective program at her elementary school. According to official website of Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, “She enjoyed music so much she continued learning classical music, finding herself auditioning for scholarships in order to pay for her music lessons. Her parents were supportive and recommended she learn something traditional that was in their culture.” This encouraged her to continue and become the first generation member from her family as a mariachi musician.

When Murrillo discovered that playing in numerous concerts, she was looked up to as a female musician. “This gave her the passion to continue and with the support of her mentors and instructors she helped other music teachers implement Mariachi programs in local schools as a part of the curriculum. This was her way of giving back to the community with hopes that the new generation would take advantage of the opportunities available,” according to official website of Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. Murrillo is an inspiration for all females and first time generation individuals to pursuit their dreams and not to lose hope.