Latin Express Keyboardist Mariza Saenz Olmos to Be Honored at Tejano Legends Houston Women in Tejano Music Industry Event

Mariza Saenz Olmos, longtime keyboardist and vocalist for the Fort Worth-based Tejano powerhouse Latin Express, is set to be recognized at the upcoming Women in Tejano Music Industry Honor hosted by Tejano Legends Houston Official.

The accomplished musician shared the emotional news with gratitude.

“I’m incredibly honored to share that I’ll be recognized at an upcoming Women in Tejano Music Industry event! I received the sweetest phone call from Mike Ramirez Jr., President of Tejano Legends Houston, letting me know I’m a recipient—and I’m still processing it. Truly grateful,” Mariza said.

“What makes this even more special? My mom is being recognized at the same event. I couldn’t be prouder of her.”

Adding to the significance of the moment, Mariza has also been invited to perform three to four songs during the celebration — a full-circle experience for an artist whose life has been defined by music, family, and service.

A 30-Year Legacy with Latin Express

Mariza has performed full-time with Latin Express since 1995, serving as a cornerstone of the band’s sound for three decades. Founded more than 50 years ago, the ensemble is widely regarded as a pillar of the Tejano genre. Her tenure represents sustained excellence, helping carry the band’s legacy across generations and stages nationwide.

Among the group’s many historic moments was a performance at the 2001 Presidential Inaugural Gala, where they shared the stage with Tejano legend Alfonso Ramos — a testament to the caliber of musicianship Mariza has consistently delivered.

Raised in a family of musicians, Mariza’s upbringing was rooted in rehearsals, travel, and shared responsibility. Music was not extracurricular — it was foundational. That early immersion cultivated the discipline and resilience that have defined her professional journey.

At just 23 years old, she wrote, arranged, and recorded her original song “Querido,” establishing herself not only as a performer but also as a creator. Throughout her career, she has performed alongside respected Tejano artists including Little Joe, Sunny Ozuna, Ruben Ramos, Augustin Ramirez, and “El Charro Negro” Bobby Butler, earning admiration through longevity, professionalism, and dedication.

Excellence On and Off the Stage

A proud Latina and non-traditional student, Mariza balanced her rigorous performance schedule with higher education milestones — earning her associate degree from Tarrant County College at 30, her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington at 35, and her master’s degree from Texas Christian University at 44. Her journey has been featured in TCC’s REACH magazine and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, highlighting her commitment to lifelong learning.

Beyond music, Mariza gives back to her community by volunteering her time teaching seniors how to crochet, using creativity to foster connection and dignity across generations. She is also a content creator who continues to uplift and inspire through her platforms.

Mariza Saenz Olmos embodies sustained artistic commitment and cultural stewardship. This upcoming recognition honors not just a moment — but more than 30 years of perseverance, excellence, and devotion to Tejano music.

Event Details

Tejano Legends Houston Official will host the Women in Tejano Music Industry Honor on:

📍 VFW Hall – 27 Farrell, Houston, TX 77022
🗓 February 22 | 12:30 –5 PM
👗 Business casual to semi-formal
🎟 Free and open to the public (donations welcome)

The event will feature a dynamic musical lineup, including Grammy-nominated artist and 2024 Tejano Legends Award recipient Sister Sister, along with Los Musicos DFW, Latin Express featuring Mariza Saenz Olmos, Maria Christina Pumarejo, L Jazz and Friends, Richard Vega y Ambición, rising Star Celeste Escobar, and Grupo Mezkal.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early for best seating.

For Mariza, however, the most meaningful part of the afternoon will be sharing the recognition with her mother — and continuing the family legacy that first placed her hands on the keys decades ago.

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