A short history of mariachi music

From village fiestas in western Mexico to stages around the world. Mariachi grew out of the folk music of western Mexico, especially the state of Jalisco.

Roots in western Mexico

Mariachi grew out of the folk music of western Mexico, especially the state of Jalisco. In the nineteenth century, small string groups played at village fiestas, weddings, and religious celebrations.

Those early ensembles mixed Spanish instruments and song forms with local styles and rhythms.

From the village to the city

In the early twentieth century, mariachi musicians moved to Mexico City and found new audiences. Radio and film carried the music across the country and made the charro suit and the trumpet part of the classic image.

Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City became a famous gathering place where groups play for anyone who requests a song.

A living heritage

In 2011 UNESCO added mariachi to its list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its role in Mexican identity.

Today mariachi is played and taught around the world, from family celebrations to festivals, schools, and concert halls.