The origins of the name “Mariachi” are still a mystery to this day. It was said to have come from the French word for “marriage” dating back to the French occupation of Mexico in the 1860’s. Given how mariachi bands were often seen playing at weddings, this was the popular theory for many years. It was even promoted on record sleeves and travel brochures, but has since been proven incorrect by historians. It is now thought to be of indigenous origin, representing the wood used to create ancient instruments and dancing platforms. Though the name has long remained a mystery, mariachi goes far beyond music. [Read more…]