What is Mariachi? We all have the image in mind. Pointed Cowboy boots, pants, and jackets ornamented with shiny silver studs, decorated leather belts and last but not least the famous sombrero- the typical costume of the mariachi musicians is unmistakable. What many people know about Mariachi is that they come from Mexico! Today, we're going to explain why Mariachi is so beloved around the globe.
Typical attire of a Mariachi
Origins of Mariachi bands
Mariachi bands originated in the early 1800 in the western part of Mexico but the specific birthplace remains unclear. It reached its height in the 1950s and 1960s and became more and more popular from thereon. The whole concept falls into males wearing the traditional costume of traje de charro (cowboy costume of the Jalisco), but since the 40s women have become more dominant in Mariachi, with all-female Mariachi groups existing now. They either wear an adaption of the traje de charro, or the china poblana, a traditional attire composed of an embellished blouse, long vivid skirt, and rebozo.
Cultural heritage
Mariachi has been appointed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2011. According to UNESCO “Mariachi music transmits values of respect for the natural heritage of the regions of Mexico and local history in the Spanish language and the different Indian languages of Western Mexico.” The repertoire includes songs from different regions, styles such as minuets, polkas and waltzes and combines them with the corridos. Corridos are Mexican ballads with lyrics about heroic deeds, homesickness, religion, love, passion and the power of the country. The word Mariachi stems from the now-extinct language of the Coca Indians.
PRO artist on Gigstarter Los Mezcales performingOne of the most significant groups is Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán which was founded in 1898 by Gaspar Vargas in Tecalitlán, Jalisco. It was taken over by his son, Silvester Vargas and is until now considered one of the worlds-best mariachi groups. In 1934, the band moved to Mexico City where it strongly influenced the development of Mariachi music.
The popularity of Mariachi continues today. Despite new trends in music, the songs are an integral part of national culture and have become a kind of national anthem. The music is played at weddings, football games and many other fiesta. Got inspired yourself? Check out our musicians, maybe you’ll find the right group for your next fiesta or even latin wedding!
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