Passionate instrument Instructor

Xristian Berry: Guitar, Vihuela, and Guitarrón

(Lessons in English and Spanish)

Xristian Berry is a dedicated musician and a senior at Pueblo High School, with a passion for music that began at the age of five. His musical journey started in elementary school when he joined the performing mariachi group, Las Aguilitas de Davis, at Davis Bilingual Magnet School. Xristian’s first instrument was the violin, which he played consistently throughout his elementary and middle school years.





His musical curiosity led him to explore various armonía instruments within mariachi, including the guitar, vihuela, and guitarrón. In middle school, Xristian joined Mariachi Pumas de Roskruge, where he performed in both the violin and armonía sections throughout all three years.

As he transitioned into high school, Xristian successfully auditioned for the award-winning Mariachi Aztlan de Pueblo High School, where he was given the guitarra de golpe as his primary instrument and is currently the section lead of the armonías. Alongside his instrumental talents, Xristian has also been dedicated to becoming a more solid vocalist within Mariachi Aztlan. This commitment led him to become a student of Mr. Moreno, who has been devoted to developing Xristian’s voice over the last two years—a journey that continues into his senior year.

Xristian’s talent and dedication extend across various instruments, including the piano, drums, electric guitar, saxophone, and ukulele, to name a few. His summers during freshman and sophomore years were spent giving back to the community as a teacher volunteer at the Davis Mariachi summer camp. 

Driven by his love for music and performance, Xristian is also committed to his academic goals. After completing his senior year, he plans to attend college and pursue a career in medicine, combining his passion for music with his dedication to helping others.

Xristian is excited to be part of the team at Operachi Music School, where he looks forward to developing new mariachi talent in Tucson, AZ. He is eager to share his knowledge and passion for music with the next generation of musicians.

  • At OPERACHI, my primary goal is to provide students with a solid musical foundation that not only enhances technical proficiency but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the art of music itself. Creativity and experimentation are strongly encouraged. I want my students to feel empowered to explore their musical voices, knowing that the journey of learning an instrument is a process that demands time, patience, and commitment from both the student and the teacher. Every student has the potential to succeed in their musical journey. My role is to guide, inspire, and support them as they discover their unique musical path.

  • Taking care of your instrument is essential for ensuring it lasts longer and performs at its best.

    1. Maintain your instrument
      Regular maintenance is key to preserving your instrument’s longevity and sound quality. Always keep your instrument clean and store it in a cool, dry environment. Avoid leaving it in extreme conditions, such as inside a vehicle, especially in hot climates like Arizona, where heat can cause severe damage

    2. Change Your Strings Regularly
      The frequency of string changes depends on how often you play. For those who use their instrument frequently, it’s advisable to replace the strings every 3 to 6 months. Fresh strings ensure optimal sound quality and playability, helping you get the best performance from your instrument.

    3. Handle Your Instrument With Care
      Your instrument is an investment, both financially and musically. Always store it in its protective case when not in use, and avoid placing it on the ground or in positions where it might be knocked over or dropped. Treat it with the respect it deserves to ensure it serves you well for years to come.

    4. Invest in Quality Materials
      The quality of your instrument and its components, such as strings, significantly impacts its performance and durability. Spending a bit more on high-quality materials is a wise investment that pays off in the long run, providing better sound and a longer lifespan for your instrument.

    By following these tips, you'll help ensure that your instrument remains vibrant and ready for your next performance. Remember, a little care goes a long way!