When you think about Mexico and its culture, what do you think of? If you know a girl who has recently turned 15, then you might think of the quinceañera. Others might mention El Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead. Or maybe you think of the fun party game – the piñata.
Today’s Wonder of the Day is about another aspect of Mexican culture. It’s one that is sure to please both the eyes and ears. What are we talking about? The mariachi band, of course!
The mariachi musical tradition encompasses various elements. You might recognize the unique clothing, instruments, and musical style of a band. However, mariachi also includes special dancing and performance techniques.
Mariachi has its roots in at least the 19th century. It originated in western Mexico, possibly in the state of Jalisco. Over time, this style of music has gained popularity beyond the borders of Mexico. In 2011, UNESCO even recognized mariachi as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Where does the word “mariachi” come from? Its origin is somewhat unclear. Many believe it originated from the French word “mariage” because mariachi bands often played at weddings. However, experts now say that the word was already in use in Mexico long before the French arrived.
Today, most people believe that the word originated from the Cora Indians. The Coras, who were native to Jalisco, used the word “mariachi” to describe a specific type of tree and the wood that came from it. Coincidentally, this wood was used to make early mariachi instruments.
Modern mariachi bands usually consist of at least four musicians, but they can include as many as a dozen or more! The traditional mariachi instruments are the violin, guitar, guitarrón, and vihuela (a small five-string guitar with a round back). Modern mariachi bands often include trumpets and sometimes harps as well.
Mariachi bands are easily recognizable because of the traditional charro suits they wear when performing. These special outfits include jackets that reach the waist, fitted pants, and unique bowties. Most band members also wear boots and sombreros. Mariachi bands always dress to impress, and their suits often feature elaborate embroidery.
Have you ever seen a mariachi band? You can sometimes find them in restaurants. Many also roam through crowds at festivals and celebrations. Their songs often cover topics such as love, betrayal, death, heroes, and animals. Since mariachi bands are expected to play songs requested by the audience, they often know hundreds of different songs!
Try It Out
Are you ready to dance? Make sure to explore the following activities with a friend or family member:
- Interested in learning more about mariachi? Go online and watch the video “The Mariachi of Puebla” by Smithsonian. Take note of two or three things that you learn from the video. Afterwards, share your newfound knowledge with a friend or family member.
- If you’re not familiar with Mexican instruments, you may find some of the instruments used in mariachi bands to be unfamiliar. Read the article “Meet the Mariachi Musical Instruments” to gain a better understanding of the unique instruments commonly found in a mariachi band. Which of these instruments do you think would pose the greatest challenge to learn to play?
- Have you ever had the opportunity to listen to a mariachi band perform? If not, have you attended any live performances by other musicians? Describe your experience in a personal narrative, providing as much detail as possible about the event.
Additional Resources
- http://gomexico.about.com/od/historyculture/p/mariachi.htm (accessed on 02 Sept. 2021)
- http://www.mexconnect.com/articles/1875-what-is-the-mariachi (accessed on 02 Sept. 2021)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariachi (accessed on 02 Sept. 2021)
- http://apps.texasbandmasters.org/archives/pdfs/bmr/2015-04-ricketts.pdf (accessed on 02 Sept. 2021)
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