Meet Mildred Mariel Pérez | Mexican Jazz Bassist based in DFW

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mildred Mariel Pérez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mildred Mariel, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
I think the decision that has contributed most to my success is taking risks—breaking my own paradigms, patterns, and habits. Constantly staying in motion, being aware of my surroundings—my friendships, my mom—and above all, being authentic, while still embracing a sense of risk.

My paradigms, patterns, and habits may not be the same as someone else’s, but I believe that identifying what might be holding me back or keeping me from reaching a goal—and choosing to act even if I feel afraid or hesitant—has made a big difference. Knowing that something is good for me and choosing to do it anyway, despite the fear, is what I think has truly contributed to my success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a jazz double bassist, originally from Mexico City. I moved to the United States nearly three years ago. One of the things that I believe stands out about me is that I can be a source of inspiration—especially for those who belong to groups that are not always represented in the arts or in other fields.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of maintaining a positive attitude. Treating your friends, colleagues, and collaborators with kindness, being open to experimentation, and accepting feedback and opinions—all of this matters deeply. It all comes down to respect. And of course, listening to those with more experience—there’s a reason they say what they say. I’ve also learned to be more open and sociable along the way.

Currently, I’m deeply engaged with the vibrant DFW music scene, collaborating with artists like jazz pianist Aakash Sridhar from India—together we have a duo project called East Meets West—and Yolanda Cruz, originally from California and now based in Texas, with her band Yolanda Cruz and the Daydreamers. I’ve also worked in musical theatre under the direction of singer, composer, and vocalist Cherish Love, performing in various DFW productions such as In the Heights and Ain’t Misbehavin’.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were to visit Denton for a week, I would take them to the Denton Square to enjoy some ice cream. There’s a place I really like called The Chestnut Bistro where we could have breakfast and later we’d grab burgers at LSA Burger. If they arrived on a Saturday, I’d take them the next evening to Paschall Bar, where some of the best musicians from the DFW scene perform live jazz. On Monday, we could go to Steve’s Wine Bar to hear more music.

We’d watch a football game at DATCU Stadium, the home of the University of North Texas Mean Green football team or we’d spend a fun day at Water Works Park, Denton’s own water park featuring giant slides and a lazy river.

We could also tour the UNT campus and listen to a concert at the College of Music or visit Quakertown Park, where there are often interesting cultural events as well. I think these activities would make for a memorable week!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The first person who comes to mind is my mom. Her trust and unconditional support have brought me to where I am today and have allowed me to build a fulfilling life. I truly believe that not many parents—especially from my mom’s generation—have invested in their children the way she has done it with me.

She has always given me her full vote of confidence, and without her, I wouldn’t be here—I’d probably be somewhere else, doing something entirely different. So I want to dedicate this shoutout to her, above all. She is my driving force, the reason I keep going, and the one I owe this to.

As I always tell her: this is for us, and it’s all thanks to her.

Instagram: @mildredmarielperez

Image Credits
Marcy Bishop
Calacas Jazz Band
JazzMX