Mariachi

Mariachi is a genre of music that originated in the State of Jalisco, in Mexico. It is an integration of stringed instruments with a variety of brass, wind, and percussion instruments. The mariachi ensemble generally consists of violins, trumpets, a classical guitar, a vihuela, a guitarrón and, on occasion, a harp. The musicians dress in silver-studded charro outfits with wide-brimmed hats. Mariachis are often used to serenade women because many of the songs have romantic lyrics. Trios of mariachis may be found for hire to seranade; the best known venues are the Plaza de los Mariachis in Guadalajara and the Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City.