Mariachi: Born of Indigenous and Rural Rhythms

After the Spanish conquest, Coca musicians incorporated European instruments like the harp, guitar, and vihuela into their rituals.

The story is colorful, and goes something like this:

In the mid-19th century, French explorers, fortune-seekers, and a few idealists landed on Mexico’s Pacific coast in search of gold and glory. Some had permission; others didn’t. They rarely found what they came for. Many were arrested or executed.

But a few, inspired by the spirit of Humboldt, wandered…