How to Start a Mariachi Band
Mariachi bands and the music they make are a beloved part of Mexico's culture. Mariachi bands are a part of many important events, including birthdays, weddings and funerals. They are even hired to serenade women on behalf of an ardent admirer. Though mariachi rituals are steeped in tradition, feel free to experiment when starting your own band. Read on to learn more.
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Instructions
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Join an established mariachi band before starting your own. Depending on your experience with the music, you may need to learn songs and techniques. However, there is little in the way of formal instruction or even written guides. New musicians learn by playing with the experts.
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Gather your ensemble. Though there is plenty of variation, especially in the United States, a mariachi band traditionally includes the following elements: 2 or 3 trumpets; a guitar and/or vihuela to provide the rhythm; between 6 and 8 violins; and, most importantly, a guitarrón for base. From time to time, an arrangement might call for a flute or accordion.
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Learn to sing. Musicians are often reluctant to sing, but crooning is an essential part of mariachi music. You will need a lead singer and a host of voices in the chorus, so make sure it's integrated into practice.
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Get the right look for your band. The typical costume requires a sombrero, a cotton tunic and long, straight pants. Finish it off with a bow-tie, cape and cummerbund and you're ready to go. Though the costume has evolved to look formal, you might consider that the earliest bands were roving peasants, and wore coarse attire.
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Line up some gigs. Serenades might be a good place to start, as you will play for a limited audience. Ask around and find a lovestruck gentleman who needs to impress a lady as she gazes out of her bedroom window. Better yet, start by surprising your mother.
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Participate in a mariachi festival. Events like the one held in San Jose, California each year attract thousands. Festivals are a great way to meet fans, participate in workshops and, of course, hear the music of many different mariachi bands.
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