About Us
Mariachi Orgullo de América
Est. 2002
Oklahoma’s Premier Mariachi Ensemble
Founded in 2002 by Robert Ruiz, Jorge Hernandez, Jose Solis, and Greg Hallman, Mariachi Orgullo de América has grown into one of the most respected, dynamic, and community-rooted mariachi ensembles in the United States. Today, it is owned and operated by husband-and-wife duo Robert and Wilmari Ruiz, whose leadership has transformed the group into a cultural institution—revered for its musical excellence, creative innovation, and deep commitment to heritage and education.
For over two decades, Mariachi Orgullo de América has brought the timeless sound of mariachi to life across Oklahoma and the greater Midwest. Their performances are emotionally powerful, visually stunning, and deeply traditional—infused with a spirit that reflects the cultural richness of the communities they serve
Why 'Pride of America'?
The ensemble’s name, Orgullo de América (Pride of America), reflects not just its musical caliber, but its people. The mariachi is a true reflection of the American mosaic—having featured musicians from many backgrounds such as Mexican, Puerto Rican, Guatemalan, Honduran, Black, Asian, European, and American descent. Many members are professional musicians and educators with advanced degrees in music. Others are professionals in fields like architecture, HR, business, and the skilled trades—yet all share a profound dedication to the art form of mariachi.
Notably, three of the ensemble’s current members began their journey in mariachi as middle school students in programs developed by Academia OKC—a Latino arts initiative founded and led by Wilmari Ruiz. Inspired by their experience, they now perform professionally with the ensemble, and some are pursuing careers as music educators themselves.
Leaders
Robert Ruiz, a celebrated cultural leader and award-winning music director, is the ensemble’s co-owner, lead vocalist, and visionary behind many of its artistic projects. His leadership has been recognized nationally with honors such as the Governor’s Arts Award, Micrófono de Oro, and The Journal Record’s Power List in both IT and nonprofit leadership.
Wilmari Ruiz is a pioneering arts and education advocate. She is one of the first professional mariachi flutists in the United States, and a highly respected producer, arts leader, and marketing expert. As co-owner, ensemble member, and manager of Mariachi Orgullo de América, Wilmari brings over 20 years of experience in cultural production, community engagement, and strategic communications. She served as Program Director of Academia OKC, where she led the launch of mariachi, folklorico, and visual arts programs in more than 10 Oklahoma schools. Her work has been supported by the Arts Council OKC, Kirkpatrick Foundation, Inasmuch Foundation, and other key funders.
Together, Robert and Wilmari have co-founded four of the state’s most beloved festivals:
Fiestas Patrias OKC
OKC Cinco de Mayo Festival
Anita Martinez Mariachi Festival
Norman Music Festival
These events, built from the ground up, were never-for-profit—any funds raised were directed back into community-based arts programs like Academia OKC.
Cultural Reach & Major Performances
Mariachi Orgullo de América has performed for high-profile figures and institutions, including:
Governor Brad Henry, Governor Mary Fallin, Senator Jim Inhofe
The Oklahoma House of Representatives (live on the floor)
OKC Thunder Halftime Show
Bob Stoops, Barry Switzer, Toby Keith, Sherri Coale
Carmen Jara, Jorge Salinas, Maribel Guardia, Lorenzo de Monteclaro, Lupillo Rivera, Pedro Rivera, El Chapo de Sinaloa, and Majo Aguilar, Ana Gabriel
They’ve performed at premier venues and events including:
OKC Memorial Marathon
OKANA Resort
Hard Rock Cafe
Monarch Madness at the OKC Zoo
Casinos, universities, libraries, and festivals across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, New Mexico, Alabama, and Mexico
Ceremonies hosted by the Mexican Consulate in Oklahoma
Collaborations with the OKC Philharmonic, Arkansas Philharmonic, and Oklahoma Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra
They’ve also collaborated with genre-defying artists like JB Williams and Lincka, expanding mariachi’s reach while remaining rooted in tradition.
Discography & Creative Projects
In 2011, the group released its debut album Oklahoma’s Mariachi, followed by the moving single Urge in 2016. Inspired by Robert Ruiz’s battle with stage 4 throat cancer, the video is a deeply personal reenactment of his journey. With over a quarter of a million views, the project has raised funds for the Stephenson Cancer Center, where he received treatment.
Watch the video here. In 2025 & 2026, Mariachi Orgullo de America released their first original songs, Mi Deseo Está Navidad & No Me Asusta La Migra.
Currently, the ensemble is recording an original concept album written by Robert Ruiz, produced in collaboration with:
Theresa Zaizar, daughter of mariachi legend David Zaizar
Jose Cruz Sánchez, trumpet professor and mariachi master from Zacatecas
Cuco Guerrero, longtime mariachi musician and multi-instrumentalist
New singles will be released throughout the year, blending traditional instrumentation with story-driven lyrics and emotional depth.
Signature Sound & Style
Mariachi Orgullo de América performs a vast and masterful repertoire of over 300 songs—from traditional rancheras, boleros, sones, and corridos to regional folk music and classical adaptations. One of their most beloved performance elements is their mariachi-style renditions of American classics such as Ring of Fire, Tennessee Whiskey, and I Wish It Would Rain—creating joyful, cross-cultural moments that resonate with diverse audiences.
Awards & Recognition
Ensemble Honors:
Governor’s Arts Award for Community Service | Robert & Wilmari Ruiz, 2019
Leadership Arts Award | Wilmari Ruiz, Oklahoma Arts Council, 2017
Hispanic Music Group of the Year | Hispanic Arts Council of Oklahoma, 2016
Music Ambassadors of Oklahoma | Lt. Governor Todd Lamb, 2016
Recognition for “Work and Contribution to the Mexican Culture in Oklahoma,” 2016
Wilmari Ruiz – Additional Achievements:
Co-founder of the Norman Music Festival
Co-founder of the Oklahoma Latino Cultural Center
Program Director of Academia OKC (2016–2022)
Board Member, OSU-OKC Presidential Advisory Board
Committee Member, Oklahoma Contemporary Performing Arts
Award-winning producer of music videos, campaigns, and cultural events
Robert Ruiz – Additional Honors:
Power List – IT Experts & Nonprofit Leaders – The Journal Record, 2024
Excellence Award for Leadership – Jóvenes Latinos Emprendedores y Profesionales, 2024
Micrófono de Oro – Asociación Nacional de Locutores de México, 2014
OMNi & Star Awards – Oklahoma Media Network, 2011–2012
Achievers Under 40 & Forty Under 40 – The Journal Record, 2008–2014
National Hispanic Merit Scholar, 1996
Mariachi Orgullo de América is more than a band—it is a legacy. Built on tradition, strengthened by diversity, and fueled by an unwavering love for culture and community, this ensemble continues to set the standard for mariachi excellence across the nation.
