ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR – SOPHIA KUSSEL
Music and the smell of delicious food will be filling the air this Saturday. Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival is making its way to the Historic La Villita. The festival provides the opportunity for middle and high school students from the San Antonio region to showcase their talents through traditional performances that include Ballet Folkloric dancers and student Mariachi performances.
The Mariachi Festival is an event part of the larger Fiestas Patrias taking place, which lasts from Sept 15 to Oct 15. The purpose of the festival is to honor Hispanic Heritage Month and commemorate Diez y Seis de Septiembre. As the story goes, on September 16, 1810, a Catholic priest by the name of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, let out a cry as he kicked off the fight for Mexico’s independence. That day in history is now known as Mexico’s Independence Day. So, where does Mariachi fit into the celebration of Hispanic heritage?
Dating back to 18th century Mexico, Mariachi is a genre of music that includes influences from Polka, and waltzes of the time, as well as a traditional folk music called son, defined by its featured string instruments. Mariachi music is known for its distinctive, boisterous sound that one can always dance to. Mariachi bands are notable for their iconic Charro outfits– an ensemble of tight and decorative pants, matching decorated jackets and a large silk tie called a moño. Mariachi has long been considered the music of celebration, played at weddings, quinceañeras, and many religious celebrations, so it is only fitting that Mariachi is also used to celebrate Hispanic heritage this month.
The Mariachi Festival itself has been hosted by the Diez y Seis Commission for nearly 20 years, further establishing the cultural importance of Mariachi within the city. The festival is also being closely managed by The League of United Latin American Citizens Council #4947 (LULAC), which works in collaboration with the Commission. The school uses funds raised by the performances to invest back into their students and their continuing musical education, a charitable pursuit. The festival is most certainly a group effort with multiple organizations participating, showcasing how the San Antonio community has banded together in an impassioned effort to bring the sound of Mariachi for all to enjoy and appreciate. When asked about the importance of collaborative effort when it comes to organizing the festival, Jeanette Flores, Texas State LULAC Deputy Director for the Youth, was happy to answer, “It takes a village to make it happen, and with the expertise of the Diez y Seis Commissioners and leadership, dedication, and continual support from The Mexican Consulate in San Antonio.”
The festival shines a spotlight on Mariachi being taught within the classroom. Mariachi music has been a prominent fixture within San Antonio’s public schools for nearly four decades, making waves within the city since the 1970s, with Mariachi being the city’s largest program in the San Antonio Independent School District. During the Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival, these talented students can demonstrate all of their hard work and training as Mariachi and have their art appreciated by the entire community.
Some may wonder why there is such a push to get students involved with the vibrant musical style. Jeanette Flores offers a poignant explanation, “I believe that there is so much we have not shared with the younger generation, and we must introduce them to our heritage with support, and appreciate the students for their accomplishments and encourage higher education.” Mariachi is seen as a cultural representative of Hispanic identity. Allowing students an opportunity to experience Mariachi exposes them to a significant piece of Latino heritage— one that runs deep within the heart of San Antonio.
The Diez y Seis Mariachi Festival takes place Sept. 24 at 12:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. Admission is free to all, with food and arts and craft booths available for patrons to explore. The event will be located at the Arneson River Theatre within the Historic La Villita.