Silver City, NM – Mariachi Plata struck all the right notes at a recent competition in Albuquerque, where the Western New Mexico University musical ensemble took home two top awards.

Mariachi Plata earned first place in the university category and second place overall at Mariachi Spectacular, an annual summer conference for mariachi ensembles throughout the region. The WNMU group returned to the event, having initially taken second place in 2016.

"Our group has really progressed over the last two years," said Bryant Chaffino, Mariachi Plata musical director. "I'm proud to say that Mariachi Plata has become a positive source of pride for Western."

The two-day conference and competition provided the student musicians with access to knowledge from renowned artists and composers. At least 14 ensembles performed in the contest.

The community-at-large can support Mariachi Plata's ongoing efforts by donating to the University Foundation. For more information, contact 575-538-6310.