A Beginner’s Guide to Instrumental Techniques in Mariachi Music

Mariachi music is a traditional musical genre from Mexico that features a group of musicians playing various string, brass, and percussion instruments. Mariachi music is often associated with festive occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, and religious celebrations. Mariachi music is also a symbol of Mexican culture and identity, as it reflects the history, diversity, and creativity of the Mexican people.

In this article, we will explore some of the basic instrumental techniques that are used in mariachi music, such as tuning, strumming, plucking, bowing, and blowing. We will also introduce some of the common instruments that are found in a mariachi ensemble, such as the violin, the guitar, the vihuela, the guitarrón, the trumpet, and the harp. By learning these techniques and instruments, you will be able to appreciate and enjoy mariachi music more, and maybe even join a mariachi band yourself!

Tuning

Tuning is the process of adjusting the pitch of an instrument to match a standard or a desired frequency. Tuning is essential for playing in harmony with other instruments and for producing a pleasant sound. Tuning can be done by ear, by using a tuner, or by using a reference pitch, such as a piano or a tuning fork.

The most common tuning system for mariachi music is the standard tuning, which is based on the notes A, D, G, B, and E. The standard tuning is used for the violin, the guitar, and the vihuela. The guitarrón, however, uses a different tuning system, which is based on the notes A, D, G, C, and E. The harp also has its own tuning system, which varies depending on the size and the type of the harp. The trumpet does not need to be tuned, as it can adjust its pitch by using valves and embouchure.

To tune your instrument, you can follow these steps:

1. Start with the lowest string or the lowest note of your instrument, and compare it with a reference pitch. You can use a tuner, a piano, a tuning fork, or another instrument as a reference.
2. If your string or note is too low, tighten it by turning the tuning peg or the key clockwise. If your string or note is too high, loosen it by turning the tuning peg or the key counterclockwise.
3. Repeat this process for the rest of the strings or notes of your instrument, until they are all in tune with the reference pitch.
4. Check the tuning of your instrument by playing a scale or a chord, and listen for any dissonance or discordance. If you hear any, adjust the tuning of the corresponding string or note until it sounds harmonious.

Strumming

Strumming is the technique of playing an instrument by sweeping a pick, finger, or nail across the strings. It is used to create rhythm and harmony in mariachi music.

To strum your instrument, follow these steps:

1. Hold your instrument in a comfortable position, with the strings facing you and the neck pointing to your left.
2. Hold your pick, finger, or nail in your right hand, and position it over the strings near the sound hole or the bridge of your instrument.
3. Move your right hand up and down across the strings, following the direction and pattern of the strumming.
4. Coordinate your left hand with your right hand, and press the strings on the fretboard to form chords or notes.

Plucking

Plucking is the technique of playing an instrument by pulling or snapping a string with a finger or a nail. It is used to create melody and harmony in mariachi music.

To pluck your instrument, follow these steps:

1. Hold your instrument in a comfortable position.
2. Position your right hand over the strings near the sound hole or the bridge.
3. Use your thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, or pinky finger to pluck the strings.
4. Coordinate your left hand with your right hand, and press the strings on the fretboard to form chords or notes.

Bowing

Bowing is used to create melody and harmony in mariachi music. It can be done in different directions and styles.

To bow your instrument, follow these steps:

1. Hold your instrument in a comfortable position.
2. Hold your bow in your right hand, and position it over the strings near the middle of the bow.
3. Move your right hand left and right across the strings, following the direction and style of the bowing.
4. Coordinate your left hand with your right hand, and press the strings on the fretboard to form chords or notes.

Blowing

Blowing is used to create melody and harmony in mariachi music. It is mainly done by the trumpet.

To blow your instrument, follow these steps:

1. Hold your instrument in a comfortable position, with the mouthpiece facing your lips and the bell pointing to your right.
2. Hold your mouthpiece in your right hand, and position it over your lips.
3. Blow air into the mouthpiece, following the way and the range of the blowing.
4. Coordinate your left hand with your right hand, and press the valves on the tube to form chords or notes.

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