The only thing more Mexican than tequila is the mariachi and its basically a disgrace to have one without the other. Mariachi goes beyond music, it is the sum of a cultural revolution expressed through a group of musicians, dressed in popular clothing which gathers the essence of Mexico and its people. It is something cultural, spiritual and traditional that is unique to this country, an experience not to be missed.
The word mariachi refers to the musicians now commonly seen in restaurants or strolling the streets wearing a certain clothing, and playing a variety of instruments which include violins, guitars, basses, vihuelas and trumpets. Our songs speak about machismo, love, betrayal, death, politics, revolutionary heroes and even animals (Ever hear of La Cucaracha?).
The mariachi originated in the southern part of the state of Jalisco sometime in the 19th century. No one although is quite sure of where the name originated from, but their are rumors. Before the French intervention in Mexico, the native mexican people had instruments which included a maraca, a flute, and maybe drums. After the french intervention though the french brought along many new instruments which included, the guitar, harps, and violins. After that many Mexicans were inspired to play which they did. They had no jobs though, so they went house to house trying to find where they could play their music. Most of them would play for a hacienda which was a big rich farm, and they would make more than the servants. Eventually the haciendas would let them go, and they would wander from town to town singing and playing, but at the same time spreading news. Still not enjoying the same position they had before, the mariachis took to playing in public venues for a fee. One of the most popular of these was San Pedro Tlaquepaque in the state of Jalisco. Shortly after 1910, the popularity of mariachi grew increasingly.They represented Mexico to the people during the Independence day celebrations in Mexico City in 1933 as well as during Lázaro Cárdenas' election campaign in 1936. after that they started signing contracts for mariachi and singers which included Jorge Negrete and Pedro Infante. They also had a increase in jazz and Cuban music so they then included the trumpet and violins were then nominated second.
This is important because this is a part of mexican history and bringing down a piece of history to New mexico. Many people have left their home country of Mexico and this is a way for them to engage and remember a piece of their heart that had been left behind from their past. It is critical to show the next generations who we are and to not forget where they came from but also to show visitors who we are and what our new Mexican culture consist of.
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