Posted in: Latin by deedee on October 20, 2009 | 0 Comments
If you love Mariachi music as much as I do, read more about the music and the men who play it.
Are you as thrilled and excited by the mariachi as I am? Whether performing in Mexican restaurants, on street corners or concerts, the beautiful sights and sounds of these musicians have captured the hearts of millions.
When I first heard of the mariachi, they were performing at The “La Margarita” restaurant in Chicago’s west loop area. I enjoyed them so much, I wanted a repeat experience. Unfortunately, however, I was not granted the opportunity until years later, this time at another Chicago loop restaurant, “Sbarro”.
Mariachi is the name given to an ensemble or group of Mexican musicians, generally sporting Charro suits and sombreros (wide-brimmed hats). The matching charro suits consist of ‘eye-catching’ vests, jackets and pants trimmed with gleaming accessories. In many instances, the name also applies to the type of instruments these musicians play, as well as the music itself.
A traditional mariachi band employs a wide variety of instruments including: violins; trumpets; one acoustic guitar; one vihuela (a five-stringed guitar with a soprano pitch); one guitarron (a large, acoustic bass guitar); and sometimes a harp. If the band is large, the musicians may also employ other instruments such as the sax, flute, accordion, harmonica, the organ or sometimes drums. The vihuela, which is round-backed, provides the typical rhythm of the music, while the harp compliments the guitarron bass and also adds flavor to the melody. Additionally, larger bands may use as many as eight violins and two trumpets.
Although there are many theories, no one is exactly sure where the name ‘mariachi’ originated. Among the diverse theories circulated are: (1) ‘mariachi’ was derived from ‘mariage’, the French word for marriage or wedding; (2) the name originated with the tree whose wood is used to create the guitars; and (3) the wood of the tree trunk was used for people to dance on during the musical performances. No matter, the origin of the name, the general consensus is that the music itself originated in Mexico’s Central Pacific region, specifically in Guadalajara, Jalisco.
While mariachis often play at birthdays and other special occasions, they are mainly used to accentuate romance. For example, a man might employ a mariachi band to serenade his woman. This is why mariachis are so popular at weddings. Instrumentation is only a part of the performance. Mariachi bands are usually accompanied by professional ranchera singers such as Luis Miguel, Pedro Fernandez, Tito Guizar, and Luis Aguilar. Some of the more popular songs include: “La Cucaracha” and “One Ton Tomato”.
This past summer, “Vive el Mariachi” was featured in concert in Chicago loop’s Millenium Park. The ensemble consisted of Los Camperos, founded by Natividad “Nati” Cano. Los Camperos accompanied Linda Ronstadt on her famous recording of “Canciones de mi Padre” in 1987. Since that time, “Nati” and Los Camperos have toured with Ronstadt, enjoying national success.
A mariachi song expresses deep sentiments regarding such emotions as love, machismo, betrayal, death, and politics. No wonder they are used at weddings. In general, mariachi songs represent the pulse or passion of a people known for their passion—the people of Mexico.
