Music Appreciation Mariachi Essay Example

as well. The sones often have lyrics that depict rural life, specifically the flora, fauna, and inhabitants of the area.

The lyrics in this text are suggestive and make use of imagery involving farm animals to describe the relationships between men and women. During the dance, the performers' movements depict the courtship of animals on the farm as described in the verses of the sones. Mariachi music has a long history, dating back several centuries. Unlike other genres like Bachs or Beethovens, Mariachi music was traditionally associated with the country people. Up until the 1930s, Mariachi groups were primarily local and composed of semi-professional musicians. They remained largely unknown outside of their respective regions. However, this began to change approximately 60 years ago when Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitl'an, founded by Gaspar Vargas in 1898, made their way from Jalisco to Mexico City.

Silvestre Vargas succeeded his father as leader of the Mariachi Vargas in 1928. He soon recruited Rubi n Fuentes, a skilled musician, as the musical director. Fuentes, who remains an integral part of the Mariachi Vargas even after more than fifty years, is a prominent figure in the evolution of the Mariachi. During the 1950s, Mariachi musicians had to acquire the ability to read music, which altered the manner in which Mariachi music was transmitted between different groups.

Gone was the musicians' complete reliance on their ears to learn new songs and techniques. By the 1950s, the Mariachi ensemble had evolved into a versatile orchestra, incorporating 2 trumpets, a classical guitar, and more violins. It retained its traditional foundation while assimilating new musical ideas and styles. Mariachis often play a role in celebrating important moments

in Mexican people's lives. They participate in courtship rituals through serenades and even contribute to the Mass, the most revered ceremony of the Roman Catholic Church. Mariachi music is taught in all levels of education, from grade school to university. USC alone has over 13 Mariachi clubs and groups, and the same can be said for other universities.

Mariachi is not only a form of entertainment at restaurants, but also at other venues like El Presidente's bar on Friday nights. Many dining establishments have followed their lead. Additionally, Mariachi groups perform in local parks and concerts across various states such as California to Texas.