Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán and Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlan

The Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan is now on its 5th generation of performers, and their style has really become more pronounced and unique in the years since this new era. Because of the slightly different arrangements of instruments, they have taken mariachi music to a whole new level, and created a sound that transports itself across borders. They're reaching an even greater audience, and enthralling them more than ever before.

When they played at the City National Civic Auditorium in San Jose, California, earlier this summer, I was completely enamoured. Having never really experienced mariachi music before, I found that the rhythm and joyful disposition of the musicians complemented one another so perfectly, creating a truly unforgettable sound. The beauty of Vargas de Tecalitlan is their complete synchronisation, and the pure originality of what they do with a classic Mexican style of performance. Their music is engaging, and really challenges the audience to find an incorrect note in what they do and how they do it.

I was transported by their humbleness and professionalism, and it was truly refreshing to experience this kind of music in a modern day era. Contemporary performances of the sort can sometimes be a hit and miss, but Vargas de Tecalitlan have created an absolutely beautiful ensemble from the skills of particularly talented individuals.