Description
San Diego-based violinist, vocalist, educator, and cultural ambassador Jillian Marie Gonzales is renowned for her contributions to mariachi, classical, and rock music. As the violinist for The Outlaw Mariachi, she blends traditional mariachi with the high-energy sounds of American and Latin rock, captivating audiences with her dynamic performances while touring the Southwest region of the United States. Currently serving as the Concertmaster at Southwestern College, Jillian is also a member of Mariachi Champaña Nevin, composed of virtuoso mariachi and classical musicians. She also spent two seasons with the Coronado Philharmonia, where she helped bring classical music to the community through professional concerts and youth outreach programs.
As a distinguished violinist and vocalist, Jillian’s career highlights include performing with the two-time Grammy-nominated Mariachi Divas during their nominations for the 54th, 55th, 56th, and 58th Grammy Awards for Best Regional Mexican Album of the Year. She has performed at prestigious events, including the NAMM Show, Disney California Adventure’s The Storytellers of Plaza de la Familia, the Coco celebrations at the El Capitan Theater, the KPBS LA Holiday Celebration, the Beijing International Tourism Festival, and the Shanghai World Expo.
Jillian has collaborated with an illustrious list of artists, including Aida Cuevas, Lupita Infante, Angel Lopez, Arturo Vargas, Ángeles Ochoa, Beatriz Adriana, Juan Valentín, Marisa Ronstadt, Rafael Jorge Negrete, Juan Mendoza “El Tariacuri,” Gabriel Solis, Juan y Laura Záizar, and Mirza Maldonado, among others.
A passionate educator, Jillian has led violin workshops for students ranging from beginners to advanced players at esteemed international mariachi conferences and festivals, including the Tucson International Mariachi Conference, San Diego International Mariachi Summit, Culiacán Mariachi Festival, Las Vegas Mariachi Conference, and Albuquerque Mariachi Conference.
Whether performing on world-class stages, educating the next generation of musicians, or fostering cultural appreciation, Jillian Gonzales embodies the transformative power of music and education.
