by Marvin Ramírez
Mariano Acevedo, a widely recognized Salvadoran musician and performer in the San Francisco Bay Area, passed away on March 11, 2026, at the age of 94. He was born on June 7, 1932, in the department of Santa Ana, El Salvador.
Acevedo was the son of Antonio Magaña and María Acevedo, who preceded him in death. From an early age, he showed a deep passion for folkloric and popular dance, winning multiple competitions in school and in his hometown. Recognizing his talent, his family moved to San Salvador when he was just nine years old to support his artistic development.
In San Salvador, Acevedo quickly gained recognition, performing on television programs and participating in radio competitions, where he consistently earned top honors. He later formed a celebrated dance partnership with a leading female champion, and together they toured extensively, becoming well known across El Salvador, Central America, and Colombia.
During his artistic travels, Acevedo expanded his talents. While in Nicaragua, performing with Los Solistas del Terraza, he began playing the congas. Upon returning to El Salvador, he joined the renowned Orquesta de Lito Barrientos, which led him to tour the United States and perform in events including a Miss Universe competition in Miami.
In 1978, during a tour with the Orquesta de Lito Barrientos, Acevedo decided to remain in Washington, D.C. Two years later, in 1980, he relocated to California, joining fellow artists Gil Medina—recognized singer of the Orquesta Internacional Polío and a key voice of the Salvadoran xuc rhythm—and Berta Coralia Valle, the principal female vocalist of the Orquesta de Lito Barrientos, who was widely celebrated in her time. These artists were part of a generation that helped define Salvadoran tropical music, often crossing paths through television appearances and touring circuits.
In San Francisco, Acevedo founded the Orquesta Sonora Marianao, entertaining audiences at local events for more than 45 years and leaving a lasting imprint on the region’s Latin music scene. He played for several years at the then-popular Casino Tropical in the Mission District.
Acevedo is survived by his wife, Francés Acevedo, and his children, Steve Acevedo and Kimberley Acevedo.
A viewing will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tiffany Chapel, Cypress Lawn Cemetery, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma, California.
Funeral services and burial will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Tiffany Chapel, Cypress Lawn Cemetery, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma, California.
– The staff of El Reportero and its editor, Marvin Ramírez, extend their most sincere condolences to the family and friends.
