Over a thousand mariachis assembled in Mexico City’s main plaza on Sunday, filling the air with the melodic strains of guitars and the harmonious vocals of classics like “Cielito Lindo.” This gathering marked the culmination of a mariachi congress dedicated to celebrating this cherished musical tradition.
This impressive turnout seemingly surpassed the previous record of 700 mariachis who had once gathered in Guadalajara, another major city in Mexico known for its vibrant mariachi culture.
The Guinness World Records organization has yet to respond to an inquiry from The Associated Press regarding the potential record-breaking nature of Sunday’s event. Nevertheless, the atmosphere was electric as musicians, many hailing from various parts of Mexico, reveled in the opportunity to perform in the historic and sprawling plaza.
For many of these performers, mariachi music is far more than a profession; it’s a family legacy. Jesús Morales recounted how his father introduced him to the violin at the tender age of eight. By thirteen, Morales was already performing with his uncles in the Mariachi Morales band in Hidalgo.
“The heritage that my dad mainly instilled in us is having respect for music and respect for our roots,” Morales reflected.
The scene was a symphony of guitars, trumpets, violins, and other traditional instruments, brought to life by skilled hands and passionate hearts. Among the performers was Aida Juárez, a seasoned mariachi with two decades of experience, who has blazed a trail for female musicians in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“We feel proud that we broke the record. It is a pride because we are Mexicans,” Juárez said, her voice brimming with national pride.
The event drew a diverse crowd, including Diana Rocío Campos, a local merchant who attended and shared her affection for the music. “Anyone who listens to mariachi gets very excited, whether they are Mexican or not,” Campos noted. “People come from many countries like Colombia or Japan to listen to the mariachis.”
As the final notes lingered in the air, it was clear that this gathering was much more than a record attempt; it was a profound tribute to a musical form that unites people across generations and borders.
