Hispanic Heritage Month is a special time to celebrate multiple Hispanic and Latino cultures and influences. They create an exciting and colorful mixture of ideas that inspire many people worldwide. One of these influential cultures is derived from Mexico, and a significant piece of the culture revolves around music.
People have used it throughout history to express their emotions, beliefs, and ideas, with Mariachi music is one of the most prominent traditional forms of Mexican music. According to Que Viva el Mariachi by The Smithsonian, it originates back to colonial times (1519-1810), featuring instruments imported to Mexico from Spain, such as the guitar and violin. People from Spain, Africa, and native tribes joined to create unique rhythms known as son jalisciense, which featured instruments imported to Mexico from Spain, such as the guitar and violin. The phrase “jalisciense,” which means “from or related to Jalisco,” refers to the Mexican state of Jalisco, specifically the town of Cocula.
The tradition has been kept alive with notable influences like Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, Jose Alfredo Jiménez, Pedro Infante, and many more. It has even made its way to our school halls!
The Woodlands High School started its very own group back in 2021, Mariachi Rojo y Verde is a fun and welcoming group led by Mr. Ponce. “I think what drew me in initially is that everyone was learning about these things together,” said Isabelle Konar, one of the original members.
Throughout the years, Mariachi Rojo y Verde has achieved great things, including making it to UIL in early 2024. The group is always ready to welcome new members; and some who have joined have found a new sense of community, “ I regret not joining earlier because it is such a warm environment and learning the guitarron has been nice. It’s been a lovely experience and it is less stressful than learning any other new skill, my teacher JD, has been very supportive,” said Catherine Igiehon.
Mariachi will keep celebrating Hispanic Heritage for many more years to come. If you would like to be part of the celebration, Mariachi Rojo y Verde will have a concert October 18th at 6 pm. Tickets can be purchased at woodlandsorch.ludus.com. Fajitas will be served with a side of entertainment!
