How to Join a Mariachi Group

Mariachi music has been around for hundreds of years. Today, many mariachi groups are paid professional entertainers who perform at various events and celebrations for all special occasions. To join a mariachi group, you'll need to have a good command of traditional Mexican music and instruments.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Appropriate instrument

1. Choose the instrument that you would like to play in a mariachi group. A mariachi group usually consists of violins, trumpets, a Mexican guitar, a vihuela (a guitar-like instrument) and a guitarron (the large, deep guitar readily associated with mariachi bands). Some groups may use other items such as a guitarra de golpe, mariachi harp, flute, saxophone, drums, keyboard and harmonica.

2. Study mariachi music and become familiar with the different styles, songs and techniques. Mariachi music is very fast-paced, entertaining and filled with high energy. It is also beautifully composed with a rhythm that alternates between 3/4 and 6/8 time.

3. Locate local mariachi groups by attending Mexican events such as Cinco de Mayo and other Mexican celebrations. Speak with the group members to learn how to join that particular mariachi group or another group.

4. Find a mariachi group in your area by visiting the Mariach4U.com website or the Mariachi.org website (see Resources below).

5. Audition for the group of your choice by playing a selection of mariachi songs. Make sure that you are familiar with the particular style of mariachi music the group plays before heading into the audition, so you can tailor your performance accordingly.

6. Continue to practice and learn new Mariachi songs even after you become a member of the group. Many mariachi groups know hundreds or even thousands of songs to perform.

Tips & Warnings

• When you join a mariachi group, you should be prepared to work hard, attend rehearsals and constantly practice the music. You must have a lot of energy in order to do well in the performances.

Resources

• Mariachi4U.com to find local mariachi groups
• Mariachi.org to find local mariachi groups

[MariachiGirl]

on 12/29/2008 yay!
http://www.mariachirosasdivinas.com/