| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| Mariachi | A traditional form of Mexican folk music, often performed by a group of musicians with string instruments. |
| Cultural Heritage | The traditions, customs, and artifacts of a community or society passed down through generations. |
| UNESCO | An international organization that promotes the protection of cultural and natural heritage around the world. |
This year, Jalisco, a state in Mexico, is making history by offering a degree in Mexican Regional Music, focusing on mariachi. This initiative aims to preserve and strengthen the cultural heritage of mariachi, which UNESCO recognized as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2011.
The announcement was made at the Regional Mariachi School in Cocula by Governor Pablo Lemus. He emphasized that this new degree honors Jalisco’s role as the birthplace of mariachi, a key part of Mexico’s cultural identity. The saying “De Cocula es el mariachi” (Mariachi comes from Cocula) highlights the town’s significance in the genre’s history.
The degree is part of a broader effort to promote mariachi. This includes renovating the school, providing new instruments, and encouraging more young people to learn about this music. The school, located in a historic building, offers classes in the afternoons and serves around 160 students. Kids aged eight and older can join and learn instruments like the guitar and violin.
Jalisco’s Culture Minister, Gerardo Asencio, explained that the program is designed to protect traditions that are important to the country. Previously, mariachi knowledge was passed down orally, but now it will have academic support for future generations.
The school also acts as a rehearsal space for established mariachi groups, allowing the beautiful sounds of live mariachi music to fill the air around the main plaza every day. This exciting development in Jalisco ensures that the vibrant tradition of mariachi continues to thrive.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Mariachi | Mariachi |
| Culture | Cultura |
| Tradition | Tradición |
Time to discuss
- Why is it important to preserve cultural traditions like mariachi?
- How do you think academic programs can impact traditional music?
- What other cultural traditions do you think should be preserved and why?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- What role does the Regional Mariachi School play in the community?
- How might this new degree program influence young people in Jalisco?
