The International Mariachi Festival held in Guadalajara, Jalisco, begins at the end of August and continues through the first week of September. This event includes concerts open to the public that feature visiting mariachi groups who’ve come from countries all over the globe. Workshops and lectures are also available to attend, focusing on the historical and cultural aspects surrounding one of the most recognizable musical traditions in the world.
Mariachi music is believed to have originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco during the 1800’s. At that time, most mariachis were itinerant laborers, who wandered from one hacienda to the next. The music is a mixture of Spanish, native and African traditions and varies by region in Mexico. After the Mexican Revolution, the haciendas were forced to release the laborers, and mariachis began to play in public places for a fee.
No matter where you’re from, you’ve likely seen and heard the unique spectacle that is a mariachi band. They’re easily recognized by the traditional costume they wear, called the “traje de charro”; a short jacket and tightly fitting wool pants, along with riding boots. Both the jacket and pants are often decked out with ornamental trim, and the whole outfit is topped off with a large sombrero, bow tie and belt. The band itself typically consists of a number of different instruments, including a least two violins, a Spanish guitar, two trumpets, a vihuela (high pitched five-string guitar), and a guitarron (a small acoustic bass).
Mariachi music has always been intended for dancing. Zapateado, the traditional dance of mariachi music, originated in Spain and has the dancers driving the heels of their boots into the floor either on the beat or in syncopation with the music. Another traditional mariachi dance, the Mexican Hat Dance, has become the national dance of Mexico. The men wear the classic charro or cowboy outfit, and the women dress in bright, sequined skirts. The dancing is highly choreographed with specific movements.
Like Mexican culture in general, mariachi music has a festive, upbeat sound. It’s often played at joyous events like weddings, and is another example of the way Mexicans love to celebrate and cherish old traditions.