Definition

Noun: 1. A type of traditional Mexican musical group: A mariachi is an ensemble of musicians, typically dressed in distinctive charro suits (ornate, fitted suits with silver decorations), who play a specific repertoire of Mexican folk music. 2. The music performed by such a group: The term also refers to the lively, rhythmic style of music itself, characterized by the use of string instruments like violins, guitars, the vihuela, the guitarrón, and often trumpets and vocals.

Usage Examples

• As a musical group:
  • We hired a mariachi to play at our wedding celebration.
  • The lively sounds of the mariachi filled the town square.
• Referring to the music or the concept:
  • The restaurant features live mariachi music every Friday night.
  • He is learning to play mariachi on the violin.

Advanced Usage

• The term can function attributively as an adjective to describe things related to this musical tradition.
  • She wore a beautiful mariachi dress for the festival.
  • They are studying mariachi history and its cultural significance.

Variants and Related Words

• Mariachi band: A more descriptive, though sometimes redundant, term for the musical group.
• Charro: Refers to the traditional Mexican horseman or cowboy, whose elaborate suit is the typical attire for mariachi musicians.

Synonyms

• Musical ensemble (general)
• Street band (descriptive, though mariachi can perform in various venues)

Notes on Meaning

• While the reference context specifies "street musicians," mariachi groups are professional musicians who perform at a wide variety of events, including weddings, restaurants, festivals, and concert halls, not exclusively on the street. The core meaning is tied to the specific musical style, instrumentation, and traditional attire.

Noun

1. a group of street musicians in Mexico