Guadalajara’s Celebration of Mariachi

Mariachi is an important part of Mexican culture, developing from the combination of Spanish instruments with indigenous styles and evolving into its rich, current form.

A photo posted by Encuentro Mariachi (@encuentromariachi) on Mar 17, 2015 at 12:09pm PDT

The genre’s roots lie in the Jalisco, an area of Mexico with a strong Charro (horsemen) tradition. After the Spanish brought the concept of musical groups, a regional sound called son jaliscense became the foundation for traditional mariachi music. Many of the legends originate from the town of Cocula, but it has since grown in scope and style through the 20^th century.

Jazz and Cuban music introduced the trumpet and violin, while elaborate costumes and sombreros brought an extravagant aspect to the formerly rustic style. Many performers found work in estates called haciendas, but after the Mexican Revolution the bands were let go, creating the tradition of street performing for money. The following decades brought mariachi to people around the world thanks the efforts of the government to promote Mexican culture.

A photo posted by Encuentro Mariachi (@encuentromariachi) on Aug 15, 2016 at 1:27pm PDT

While American depictions of the genre are often stereotypical, there is a rich tradition in Mexican communities throughout the Americas, helping to spread and evolve the genre while maintaining its traditional roots as a base. This month, thousands of performers will arrive in Guadalajara for the International Mariachi Festival, Mexico’s annual event that opens homeland month. In addition to music, there will be rodeos, tequila tastings and plenty of dancing and fireworks.

Learn more about the festival at mariachi-jalisco.com.mx.