Students Enjoy Mariachi Music

Keven Cortez, Johan Zamudio, and Jesus Gomez

The majority of students at Morton East enjoy Mariachi music.

In a random survey of 100 Morton East students, 57% of students enjoy Mariachi music.  According to Velas Magazine, Historically the mariachi orchestra emerged in the late 1700s or early 1800s in west-central Mexico. Traditionally the original instruments’ formation used to leave trumpets aside, as the rough sound was found unpleasant, trumpet was incorporated in the 1930s. Over time, after the revolution of 1910, modest uniforms began to appear. When for the first-time mariachis could afford to outfit themselves elegantly, they chose the suit of the horseman or traje de charro. 

Mr. Tom was here when Mariachi stared, but it was started by Mr. Pachardo, with the NEIU after school program. Later Mr. Tom worked who with Mr. Pachardo, later taking over the Mariachi band. As of now the Mariachi band is now lead by Mr. Cervantes.

Music teacher Mr. Andres Cervantes supervises and directs the maricahi club.

“I think it is a responsibility to learn the music of the culture I belong to and from then on I fell in love with it because of the intricate diversity and complexity that can be found all over Mexico,” Senior Manuel Uribe said.  

While some did it for their culture, others did it for enjoyment. 

“I first did it for a class assignment, but then after I saw them doing their rehearsal, they were enjoying themselves and just doing great and I felt like wanting to be part of the club,” Senior Rogelio Rodriguez said. 

  The same student who enjoys mariachi said this when asked if the mariachi program should be continued.

The school’s mariachi band performs in Cicero and surrounding communties. (Kristian Gallegos)

“It should really be given more recognition, few know about it and most definitely be given fundraising to elevate them, like proper performance attire, and it should most definitely Continue,” Senior Rogelio Rodriguez said.