Celeste Rios Villarreal

Alteña since: 2015

Instruments: Violin, Vocals

Celeste Fact: Celeste’s photo is featured on the side of the campus tram at Texas State University!

Celeste Rios Villarreal was born and raised in Eagle Pass, TX, and has been a member of Mariachi Las Alteñas for nearly 10 years. Celeste's brings a fire to Las Alteñas with her vocal talent and stage presence! Her journey with mariachi music began at age 13 when she joined her middle school mariachi program, combining her experiences in theater and musical productions since the age of 7 with her love of performing on stage. Celeste has a bachelor's degree in Spanish with a minor in music from Texas State University. Throughout college, she performed with the Texas State Mariachi and Salsa Del Rio, the University's salsa band. In 2011, Celeste competed in the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza, won 1st place in the college category, and earned the title "Best in the US," which allowed her to open up for Mariachi Vargas. She is currently starting her 10th year as an elementary music teacher. Her musical inspiration is her grandfather and her husband, who also share a love and passion for music. Celeste is also a member of all-female cumbia band Sonora Hechicera. She hopes to keep inspiring her students and her most beautiful treasure, her lovely daughter Nadya.