Mariachi Origins

Mariachi grew from humble beginnings say historians, back over 200 years to the Jalisco highlands. Re ad more

Auditions

Sol de México® and Reyna de Los Angeles® both provide an exceptional opportunity for new talent to join their respective ensembles. Read More

The Group

The current members of Mariachi Sol. Meet them...

Mariachi In Action

Mariachi Sol de Mexico® de Jóse Hernàndez long to give from their very force of life. Read more...

Mariachi Heritage

Jóse Hernàndez foresaw the future of mariachi in the hands of our precious youth
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Editorial

Tips and tricks for a succesfull mariachi. Read More

Jose Hernandez Editorial

"I've always admired those of you who cherish the legacy mariachi can give it's people. To believe in mariachi means having a passion for life itself.

For the past 25 years, I've been playing mariachi music at the professional level. There has always been a certain level of code that I've played with. However, some musicians wouldn't take this code serious. To have a sense of respect and command of the audience, this code can even be applied to the student! Check back to understand what my latest thoughts are on the Passion of Mariachi".

Jóse's Current Review THE PROFESSIONAL MARIACHI
by Jose Hernandez and Mariachi Sol de Mexico

1. REHEARSALS:

A) Be on time, at least 20 minutes before down-beat.

B) Careful tuning is essential for a good rehearsal and performance. Needless playing is unfair to others who are trying to tune.

C) If rehearsing with written music, place your music stand at best height for maintaining eye contact with the conductor.

D) Stop playing when conductor stops, and listen to what he says.

E) Do not rely on only reading music, try to memorize as fast as possible so that you can interpret your music better.

F) When playing, listen to the entire Mariachi. All parts are important, especially the rhythm section.

G) Keep track of time allowed for breaks, be back to play on schedule.

H) NEVER stare or comment when someone makes a mistake. This is discourteous to the player and distracting for everyone. AND YOU COULD BE NEXT!

I) Practice your parts at home. Plan your practice. Isolate problems in advance so you can concentrate on them.

J) Prepare group choreography during rehearsals.

K) Continuing your musical education in voice and instrument is very important for longevity as a good all around musician.

2. IMAGE AND HYGIENE

A) Clean boots, traje, botonadura, haircut, nails cut and clean and personal presentation.

B) Remember we are striving to get rid of the image of the stereotypical pot bellied Mariachi sitting under the cactus.

3. SHOWMANSHIP:

A) When accompanying singer, do not over shadow the star.

B) Once on stage do not practice parts, it looks unprofessional.

C) Adjust attitude and facial expressions to type of song you are performing.

D) Do not talk to person next to you on stage unless its part of the act.

E) Always keep in subtle touch with section leader, vocal cutoffs and director but DO NOT IGNORE AUDIENCE.

F) When featured as a solo singer your arm movements and facial expressions need to compliment the lyrics of the song. Practice in front of a mirror until you feel comfortable.

G) Choosing the right variety of songs and change of tempos are important for your choice of repertoire. PLEASING THE AUDIENCE ALWAYS COMES FIRST.

H) Have fun, enjoy yourself during performance. DO NOT GET UPTIGHT!

4. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT:

A) If you do not have something nice to say about your fellow musicians do not say anything at all. If you have a problem with someone discuss it with your leader.

B) Constructive criticism is one thing, putting people down is another.

C) Always put your ego aside.

D) When you appreciate the performance of another group let them know, congratulate them. This shows humility and true appreciation of Mariachi.

E) Healthy competition is good motivation & results in better performance by all groups.

F) Do not hesitate to ask if you can analyze a musical arrangement or assist in helping any fellow musician.

G) Remember a professional musician can be creative and innovative, not always bound to the mechanics.

Visit my past thoughts on the Passion of Mariachi: Why is passion so important for you and Sol de Mexico®?

You can send your mariachi subject to Jóse Hernàndez