mariachi

A colorful and lively style of music that originated from Cocula, Jalisco, Mexico. Instruments typically include: guitar, vihuela (often called mexican guitar), guitarron (mexican bass), violin, trumpet, and sometimes harps and flutes. Mariachis usually dress in silver-studded charro outfits with wide-brimmed hats (sombreros). Mariachis are usually professional entertainers who are paid for gigs. Today, many Mariachis have become worldwide musicians and entertainers (Mariachi Vargas, Mariachi Sol de Mexico). Mariachis are usually associated with the Mexican Independence, and seen as Mexico's spirit in form of music.