The Three Mexican Tenors are a sensational vocal ensemble, blending the passion, tradition, and musical sophistication of Mexico with the universally beloved format of the classical tenor trio. Friday evening, Jorge Lopez-Yañez, Alfredo Carrillo, and Jesús León performed with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, led by Principal Guest Conductor of Pops, Enrico Lopez-Yañez. Their inspiring performance was a testament to the enduring appeal of operatic and popular music, reimagined through the lens of Mexican culture.
The Three Mexican Tenors- Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
From the moment the trio took the stage, the audience was captivated by their commanding presence and effortless charisma. Dressed in elegant attire that echoed both classic operatic formality and their Mexican origins, the tenors immediately established a warm connection with the crowd. Their opening number, a rousing rendition of a traditional Mexican folk song, set the tone for an evening that would be both musically thrilling and emotionally resonant.
What truly sets The Three Mexican Tenors apart is their ability to blend genres. Throughout the evening, the setlist moved fluidly from beloved operatic arias—such as “O Sole Mio” to “Con te partirò”, an Italian song made famous by Andrea Bocelli. The program also included stirring interpretations of Mexican standards like Somo Mexico and Cielito Lindo. Each selection was delivered with impeccable technique and heartfelt emotion, demonstrating the trio’s remarkable versatility.
The arrangements were carefully crafted to highlight each tenor’s unique vocal qualities while allowing for harmonious ensemble moments. These showcased not only their individual talents, but also their deep sense of musical unity. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, led by the gregarious Lopez-Yañez—who is the son of tenor Yañez—demonstrated its own formidable versatility and virtuosity in performing a wide range of genres seamlessly.
One of the highlights of the performance was their interpretation of Granada, a classic song about the Spanish city, composed by Mexican Augustin Lara. This piece was filled with dramatic flair, dynamic phrasing, and a palpable sense of joy, mirroring the tenors’ passion and skill. Equally memorable was their rendition of You Raise Me Up, made popular by Josh Groban. Another crowd-pleaser was their performance of Labiamo ne’ lieti, the famous drinking song from Verdi’s La Traviata, which delighted the audience.
The Three Mexican Tenors- Courtesy of Tom Russo. Used with permission.
Beyond their vocal prowess, The Three Mexican Tenors excelled in showmanship and audience engagement. Their warm banter, along with that of conductor Lopez-Yañez between songs, was lighthearted and genuine. The vocalists spoke with pride about representing Mexican culture on the global stage.
As the evening drew to a close, The Three Mexican Tenors delivered an encore medley of songs sung in Spanish, leaving the audience on its feet, clapping and singing along. It was the perfect conclusion to a performance that celebrated not only the beauty of the tenor voice but also the rich tapestry of Mexican musical heritage.
The Three Mexican Tenors offered an unforgettable musical experience that transcended genre and language. Their artistry, charisma, and dedication to their craft make them a must-see act for fans of vocal music, whether you are a devotee of opera, mariachi, or simply appreciate world-class singing. Their highly entertaining concert was more than a performance; it was a heartfelt celebration of culture, unity, and the power of song. As a proud Mexican American, I was moved by their loving tribute to the music and culture of my origins.
For tickets and information about The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra 2026 Season, visit indianapolissymphony.org
