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Elisa Gastellum was a passionate
young woman pursuing her dream to be a famous singer in the mariachi
realm.
In five years, Elisa went
from knowing very little about mariachi music to embracing it
with a strong desire to perform and move audiences. Despite her
youth, Elisa had a way of deeply touching people with her songs.
Her favorite mariachi singers
were Mariachi Vargas, Luis Miguel, Rocio Durcal, Aida Cuevas
and her personal violin instructor, Monica Trevino. Elisa also
admired her godfather, Steve Carrillo, from Mariachi Cobre. Steve
helped Elisa with vocal instruction and advice whenever possible.
Elisa held a special place in her heart for Mariachi Cobre. She
considered them family. |
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In 2005, when Elisa submitted
a video to compete in the Tercer Festival de Mariachi in DisneyWorld,
she realized that her chances of being selected would be slim
because she didn't speak Spanish.
It was for this reason that Elisa felt indebted to Univision
producer, Eduardo Jimenez Pons of Miami. He saw beyond the language
barrier when he heard Elisa sing. He believed in her talent,
and it was through his determination that Elisa was one of the
six selected to participate. |
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When Elisa became runner-up
in the festival, Mr. Pons said, "It was a tough competition
and Elisa did very, very well. She had it tough because she did
not speak Spanish. However, she sings beautifully in Spanish.
She can really feel the music. She is kind of like a Linda Ronstadt
phenomenon. She certainly needs to follow a singing career because
she is fantastic." |
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Upon returning to Tucson, Elisa
set a goal to go to Mexico and study Spanish. Elisa and her family
prayed that God would open the right door for her future. On
Feb. 24, 2006, God did open a door -- the door to eternal life.
Elisa will never be forgotten. Through her foundation the dreams
of other young musicians will be realized, as hers was. |
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