The Mariachi Choir, one of five wonderful and diverse groups providing music ministry for masses at San Fernando Cathedral under the leadership of Rick McLaughlin, Director of Music Ministries, has been in existence since 1990. It is a church choir that uses mariachi instrumentation and rhythms to accompany the vocalists, hence its name, San Fernando Cathedral Mariachi Choir. Ours is not a mariachi in the truest sense of the word. We restrict our music and activity exclusively in support of liturgical celebrations.

The Choir, currently comprised of thirty individuals who volunteer their time and dedicate their talents to our music ministry, provides that ministry in support of the Cathedral's 5:00 p.m. Saturday liturgical celebration, which is typically called the Mariachi Mass. While the mass is conducted in English, the Choir sings hymns in either Spanish, English or in both languages in its efforts to provide parishioners as well as visitors the opportunity to join in singing praises to our Lord.