Mariachi music has deep, rich roots in Mexican culture — and a distinctly unique mark on the Fairbanks landscape after a West Valley High School student took a bold leap for a world music assignment a few years ago.

During an interview with Alaska Live’s Lori Neufeld at the KUAC Alaska Live Archive Studio, five members of the band were prepping for their performance.

Erika Sabarzo-Bernal formed Mariachi Nomeolvides in her sophomore year as an option for a West Valley music class. The band is named after Forget-me-not (or Nomeolvides), Alaska’s official state flower.

“I thought, why not start a mariachi band if I’m allowed?” Sabarzo-Bernal said. With the help of music teacher Gwendolyn Brazier, she put together a group to perform.

Now a senior, the lead vocalist and guitarist has formed

See Full Page