Originally posted by Pompano
Once thought that the word Mariachi originated from the French word "mariage" (for "wedding" or "marriage") in the 19th century. Another theory held
that the word referred to the wooden platform on which the musicians would often play, which came from the Pilla or Cirimo tree.
However, the most recent and best evidence suggests that the term "Mariachi" predates the arrival of the French in Mexico and it may be older than
originally suspected. Instead, it is thought that the word originated in the language of the Coca Indians in the early 1500's. The word may have been
used to refer to any musician. The most appropriate modern definition would be "Mexican Folk Musician." Used in a different context, the word could
also have been used to refer to a group of such musicians. Today, the meaning often extends itself to include the Mariachi instrumentation, attire,
and music. |