NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – New York City is known for its rich musical diversity, and mariachi music is no exception. This year, the ensemble group Mariachi Tapatio de Alvaro Paulino celebrates its 41st anniversary, marking decades of cultural contribution and musical excellence.
Founded in 1983 by Alvaro Paulino Sr., a musical pioneer from Puebla, Mexico, the group has grown into one of the most respected Mariachi ensembles in the Northeast. His son, Alvaro Paulino Jr., continues the legacy, but acknowledges that the journey hasn’t always been easy.
“He lived his American dream,” Paulino Jr. told 1010 WINS. “ He was doing mariachi as a hobby, as a second job.”
Today, Mariachi Tapatio is known for its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, with performances that resonate with audiences beyond the Mexican and Latino communities.
“We don’t just work with the Mexican community and not just the Latino community,” Paulino Jr. said. “New York City is very diverse. We work with Afro-Americans, we work with Caucasians, we work with Chinese, Indian—we work with everyone.”
As the group celebrates more than four decades of success, they remain focused on ensuring the music thrives for future generations.
“Along with Latino pride, you have to be proud of where your family is from, your roots,” Paulino Jr. said. “You have to know where you come from.”
For more about the Mariachi Tapatio, listen to Paulino Jr.’s interview above with WINS anchor Mario Bósquez.