World-Famous Disney Mariachi Cobre Director Receives Legacy Award

Mariachi musician holding a trumpet, celebrating an award presentation.

Published on Oct 06, 2025 by Will

For more than 43 years, millions of guests from around the world have experienced the warm melodies of traditional folk music from Jalisco, Mexico, performed at the Mexico pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. Since opening day in 1982, the world-famous Mariachi Cobre group has delighted guests with their heartfelt music that tells stories of life and love.

This year, Esteban Carrillo, co-founder and director of Mariachi Cobre, joined a distinguished group of cast members to receive the Walt Disney Legacy Award. This peer-nominated honor recognizes those who embody Walt Disney's timeless values of Dream, Create, and Inspire. Esteban's ever-present smile and uplifting spirit have made a lasting impact on both guests and cast members over the decades.

Mariachi band performing in a spacious venue with an audience.

Musicians performing with brass instruments in a lively outdoor setting.

Vintage plane on tarmac with stairs and vehicle beside it.

A young man in formal attire boarding a plane.

Esteban's journey with Disney began before EPCOT, dating back to 1968 with performances at Disneyland as part of a youth mariachi group. He fondly remembers the honor of flying aboard Walt Disney’s personal plane during those early years, a dreamlike experience that marked the start of his enduring Disney career.

Esteban conducting a mariachi workshop with young students on stage.

Two men in traditional mariachi outfits hold trumpets in front of a colorful poster.

With over five decades of sharing mariachi music and Mexican American culture, Esteban has profoundly influenced the mariachi community. Fellow band member Rene Aguirre Garcia, who grew up inspired by Esteban and his brother Randy, shared that Esteban was a childhood idol for many and a mentor who helped shape their dreams into reality.

Esteban's humility shines through despite his many accomplishments. His peers and guests alike appreciate his dedication, cheerful nature, and commitment to creating happiness. His nomination for the Legacy Award came from his fellow band members who believe he embodies the spirit Walt Disney envisioned for cast members.

Esteban Carrillo holds a Walt Disney Legacy Award, smiling proudly.

In addition to the Legacy Award, Esteban was celebrated in 2022 as the inspiration for one of the United States Postal Service's Mariachi Forever stamps, honoring the rich cultural significance of mariachi music. He remains proud and honored to have his legacy shared with a larger audience.

Esteban credits the entire Mariachi Cobre group for his success, recognizing that the band's collective talent and support have shaped him both as a musician and as a person. From mentoring new members to sharing special songs for magical guest moments, Esteban continues to inspire and bring joy with his signature smile.

Congratulations to Esteban Carrillo on receiving the Walt Disney Legacy Award, and gratitude to Mariachi Cobre for sharing their beloved culture, traditions, and música with guests from around the world at EPCOT.

To read more about this, visit the Official Disney Parks Blog post here.
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