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History of the Mariachi
In complete Mariachi groups, there are as many as six to eight violins, two trumpets, a guitar, a round-backed guitar called the vihuela, a guitarron that serves as the bass of the ensemble and a Mexican folk harp which usually doubles as the base line. While these instruments have European origins, in their present form, they are strictly Mexican. Combined, these instruments make the unique sound, The Mariachi, the heart and soul of Mexico.

The principal music played by the early Mariachis was the son, the popular music of the day. A mixture of folk traditions from Spain, Mexico and Africa, the son was found in many regions of Mexico. The son from Jalisco is called the son jalisciense: La Negra is the best-known example. Sones from other regions include the son jarocho or veracruzano from Veracruz.

The most famous example of the son jarocho is “La Bamba.” The son from northeastern Mexico is the son huasteco. A typical son huasteco, also known as the huapango, is “La Malaguena.” La Malaguena is my favorite! It is interesting to note that there are some sones, such as El Gusto,which are common in all three regions of Mexico.

Each of the regional variations of the son has its traditional style of dance. The dance styles may be explained in a later review, perhaps when a Festival of Ballet Folklorico occurs.
Mariachis were not known out of their region until about 60 years ago. The Mariachi Vargas was taken from Jalisco to perform in Mexico City. It was then that Mariachis gained popularity.
Today, Mariachis play for celebrations such as weddings, quinceaneras, special masses, serenatas, birthday Mananitas, holiday festivities (Cinco de Mayo), and even funeral processions.

Festival Event
This month, San Jose hosted the International Mariachi Festival (September 7 - 28), which celebrated the women of mariachi and cancion ranchera (Mexican country song).
On Saturday, the Gala Concert presented a tribute to three women pioneers of mariachi music who have been an inspiration to millions – Lucha Reyes, Amalia Mendosa and Lola Beltran. Female performers showcased with world known Mariachis were Linda Ronstadt, Lila Downs and Aida Cuevas.

My day to venture to the International Festival de Mariachis, for the first time ever, was this past Sunday. Of great importance is the fact that on this journey I was accompanied (in mind, heart and spirit) by my friend, the other Lucia, whose passion is music and traveling to Mariachi festivals held throughout the United States.

Although Mariachis performed the entire day, I only watched performances for half a day and was able to get in some exercise, since shows took place at two different stages. Must not forget to mention that I thoroughly enjoyed the samples donated by Safeway stores (yogurt, ice cream and fruit juices).

Performers
Mariachi Chula Vista, from Southern California, consisted of 17 student musicians from ages 14 – 19: 9 violins (two male, seven female), 2 trumpets, 1 harp, 2 guitarrones, 2 vihuelas, and 2 guitars. Of the many times I’ve seen mariachis perform, never before have I seen such a large group, with each musician being extremely talented with both instrument and voice. Favorite song: “Perdon” dedicated to all the beautiful women in the audience.

Mariachi Ellas Son, from Los Angeles, was composed entirely of females from Panama, Los Angeles, Guadalajara, Tijuana, Tokyo, Switzerland, etc. Very international! In addition to the usual mariachi instruments, they also had conga and snare drums. Their grand finale included songs by female greats, Selena and Celia Cruz. This was the most entertaining group, because they played music other than the traditional mariachi son and ranchera. Check out their music on myspace.com.

Mariachi Las Pioneras - Almost missed this group completely. Caught their act as I returned from the Alternative stage. This group consists of the older “pioneer” mariachi women, all in their 70s and 80s, who received a standing ovation from their audience. Proof that music keep the heart and mind young.

Los Hermanos Escamilla - Not a Mariachi group, but definitely worth mention. A group of five brothers presented a spectacular performance on trick roping, utilizing one, two and sometimes three ropes at a time. One of their final tricks was jumping double rope while twirling rope around their body, called The Tunnel. You have to see to believe!

Grand Finale – Lila Downs
The Alternative Stage area was packed with people awaiting the closing performance by Lila Downs. My feet kept telling me it was about time to go home, but my mind told me it was a performance not to be missed. In the past year or so, I’ve read nothing but great reviews on Lila’s recent concerts.

Her performance in San Jose was like all others, fantastic, in which she included songs such as “Black Magic Woman” (in slow ballad style), “Justicia” ( a ranchera about Mexican farmworkers), “Tierra de Luz” which she dedicated to Mercedes Sosa and my favorite “Traigo Penas En El Alma” (a ranchera).

Lila’s voice ranged from a strong and powerful voice, holding a note endlessly on the rancheras, to a soft and gentle voice, with mystical and sultry movements on the ballads. Definitely worth the wait!

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