A minimum mariachi group has 2 violins, 2 trumpets, 1 guitarrón, 1 guitar, and 1 vihuela. Complete mariachi groups have a minimum of 12 members with the standard 6 violins, 3 trumpets, 1 guitarrón, 1 guitar and 1 vihuela. A 13th member is often a harp, an extra violin, or an extra guitar. The Vargas de Tecalitlán currently has thirteen members, distributed as follows:
Violins: Manuel Alcaraz Vargas, Alberto Alfaro, José "Pepe" Martínez (Director), José Martínez Jr., Daniel Martínez, and Andres Gonzalez
Trumpets: Federico Torres (member since 1966), Gustavo Alvarado (since 1991), and Fernando Valasquez (since 2007)
Guitarrón: Enrique de Santiago (member of the group since 1989)
Guitar: Arturo Vargas (member of the group since 2003 and originating in Jalisco)
Vihuela: Gilberto aguirre (part of the group since 2011, being the newest member of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán)
Harp: Julio Martínez (member since 1996)
The history of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán is divided into five phases (or generations); the first generation from 1897 to 1930, the second from 1931 to 1949, the third from 1950 to 1993, the fourth from 1994 to 2002 and the fifth since 2003 to date.
1st generation (1897–1930)
The Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán was born in a small city called Tecalitlán, to the south of Jalisco. Founded in 1897 by Don Gaspar Vargas the formation during those years was provided by the guitarra de golpe (or mariachera) played precisely by Don Gaspar, the wooden harp by Manuel Mendoza, and two violins played by Lino Quintero and Refugio Hernandez. The combination of these instruments established the "Sonido Tecalitlán" which distinguished from the "Sonido Cocula". (The Mariachi from Cocula utilized the guitarron and the vihuela in place of the harp and the guitarra de golpe aside from the two violins). In 1913, Don Gaspar introduced one trumpet to the group but it was not well accepted and, in later performances, its high-pitched sound was considered annoying. The cornet was replaced by another violin. The group consisted then of five elements. The son of Don Gaspar Vargas, Silvestre Vargas, joined as a violinist in 1921. From 1926 the group consisted of Gaspar Vargas - Guitarra de golpe, Manuel Mendoza - Harp, Silvestre Vargas, Trinidad Olivera and Nicolas Torres - Violins.
2nd generation (1931–1949)
In 1931 Gaspar Vargas turned the leadership of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán over to his son, Silvestre. As the first step in his reorganization Silvestre decided to enlarge the group to eight musicians. He invited his compatriots, the Quintero brothers, Rafael and Jeronimo to join. One played a violin and the other a guitar. Later he would add another violin played by Santiago Torres. He moved Trinidad Olivera from the violin to the guitarron, although still preserving the wooden harp. It was Silvestre who possessed a dream that his group would one day be the greatest mariachi in all Mexico and he was relentless in his pursuit of fulfilling that dream. The Mariachi Vargas was something of an oddity in the early 1930s; the members were all dressed in charro suits, they showed up on time for performances, and they were sober.
In 1933 they won first place in a Mariachi contest celebrated in Guadalajara. Then again, in Mexico City, in 1934, they were awarded another first place prize. President Lázaro Cárdenas, who enjoyed the music of "Vargas", subsequently had the group hired as the official mariachi of the Mexico City Police Department and the group moved to Mexico City where they remained for 20 years. They provided music and entertainment for the capital city at its parks and gardens. Beginning in 1937, the Mariachi Vargas appeared in "Asi es mi Tierra", the first of its more than 200 motion pictures. They played in many of Pedro Infante's movies as well. In that same year they recorded their first record and signed an exclusive contract with RCA.
In 1941 they definitively integrated the trumpet into the musical interpretations of the group. Miguel Martínez was the first trumpet player for Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán. He is considered the creator of the mariachi-style trumpet and the best performer, teacher and example of the instrument. In 1944, Rubén Fuentes, a classical violinist with no background in mariachi music, was asked by Silvestre to join the group. He joined as a violinist and became music adjuster. Silvestre Vargas and Ruben Fuentas reorganized Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán and changed their image and sound. They demanded a professional presentation to overcome the unruly concept that the term "mariachis" had to the general public in those days.
3rd Generation (1950–1993)
Fuentes took complete responsibility for the group's musical direction, and enriched the evolution that for many years had conserved the primitive and unstudied qualities of mariachi. The changing sound of the Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán was redirected without the abandonment of its roots or traditions. The Huapangos and Sones (which were two very distinctive styles of the mariachi music) were being interpreted in many diverse and different ways. The Mariachi Vargas recorded the Sones with arrangements and adaptations as patterns for other groups. This stratagem promoted the concept that all mariachi groups could be unified to those versions by taking them as examples. The traditional songs and the original sound of the mariachi began to mature in the 1950s. It was during the recordings of the "Golden Age of the Huapangos" that the compositions, arrangements and musical direction of Rubén Fuentes, and the unequaled voice of Miguel Aceves Mejía, initiated a musical shift that would change the sound and instrumentation of the mariachi. Due to the fact they change mariachi from the start they choose to keep it in away that it would still be traditional.
Revolutionary new harmony
In 1955 Rubén Fuentes stopped performing in the group. However, to date he maintains his position as producer, musical arranger and musical director, assisted during this first age by Jesús Rodríguez de Hijar and, under both, the administrative and leadership skills of Silvestre Vargas. In 1966 Rubén Fuentes wrote "La Bikina", a song that was recognized as the epitome of this Revolutionary New Harmony and sound of the mariachi. He continues to write and produce music for Mariachi Vargas that takes is an emotional roller coaster from the height of happiness to the despair of a broken heart or a lost love. As much in Mexico as in foreign countries the Sones and Huapangos acquire new directions.
Mariachi conferences
In the 1970s interest in mariachi music was waning. But all that changed when San Antonio, Texas held its first international mariachi conference in September 1979. In 1975, Jose "Pepe" Martinez, Sr. became the musical director of Mariachi Vargas. He wrote many arrangements including "Violin Huapango" which individually showcase the different instruments and members in the group. In 1983, the Mariachi Vargas appeared for the first time at the Tucson International Mariachi Conference. A new movement began to grow and many other conferences began to develop. The Mariachi Vargas was often chosen as the headline performer.
In 1986, Linda Ronstadt appeared with the Mariachi Vargas at the Tucson International Mariachi Conference where she sang publicly in Spanish for the first time. In 1987 she released her "Canciones de mi Padre" album featuring Mariachi Vargas which won her a Grammy award for the album. She also went on a national tour with the group, giving greater international exposure to mariachi music than ever before and creating a new audience for mariachi music among non-Hispanics.
Classical mariachi
In 1989, the Mariachi Vargas released their "En Concierto" CD featuring some of the greatest renderings of classical music ever played by a mariachi group. They also accompanied Lucero in the 1990s as she rose in the ranks of contemporary musical stardom. The Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán initiated a series of solo recordings: Sones, Valses, Pasos Dobles, Bailes Regionales, Polkas, Clasico e International, etc. They have added more than 50 recordings of mariachi music interpreted by what has become "The Best Mariachi in the World."
4th generation (1994–2002)
It is known by all mariachi lovers that this generation was the most talented group of musicians performing since 100 years of their foundation.[citation needed] In their album "La fiesta del Mariachi", Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, fourth generation, the group integrates to make a tribute to Jose "Pepe" Martínez, who besides his magnificent musical arrangements and direction of the group, inspired many as a composer. Their recordings on Polygram with this generation include are, "El Mariachi Vargas", "En Concierto", "Los sones Reyes", "La fiesta del Mariachi" and "50 anniversary of Rubén Fuentes". Rubén Fuentes's arrangements and music with the Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán are the first five recordings for the one-hundredth anniversary of the foundation of "Vargas" in 1997.
5th generation (2003–present)
In 2003 Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán began its fifth generation. Their latest recordings are, "5ta Generacion", "Sinfonico I", "Sinfonico II", and "Penas, Desengaños... Y Amores". Today the group is composed of two harps, one vihuela, one guitar, one guitarron, three trumpets and six violins. With the added instruments, a new sound has emerged that crosses all international borders. The music they play now ranges from the traditional sones to classical works as well as popurris that continue to delight audiences everywhere. In the 100 years since its foundation, the group has gone through some major changes. While there has been some departure from the tradition during that time, the group has maintained its roots through the playing of traditional Mexican sones. In 1997, "Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán" celebrated its first One Hundred years of foundation.
Discography
From 1937 until now (2009), the Mariachi Vargas has produced over 50 recordings, whose contents are Huastecos sones, waltzes, popurris, polkas, huapango, cumbias, among others.
Danzones (1964 RCA)
Mariachi *Colección Original (BMG Latin, 1999) –This is a recording recompilation made while 1958–1968 -.
Lo Mejor de lo Mejor (BMG Latin, 2000) –This is a recording recompilation made while 1958–1967 -.
Tradicionales de México Lindo Y Querido (LIDERES, 2001).
Sinfónico With Orquesta Filarmónica del Estado de Querétaro (2001) –Directed by Maestro José Guadalupe Flores-.
5ta. Generación (2002).
Sinfónico II With Orquesta Filarmónica del Estado de Querétaro (2002) Directed by Maestro José Guadalupe Flores-.
Penas, Desengaños Y Amores (2004).
Y aquí estamos (2008).
Son De Mi Tierra
Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlan Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
Uh-ah, ja, ja, ja
Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy
Aunque lejos de mi tierra, si Dios quiere pronto voy
Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy
Aunque lejos de mi tierra, si Dios quiere pronto voy
Con sus cascadas y ebrio a la vez
Qué linda tierra, qué bella es
Con sus cascadas y ebrio a la vez
Ah-ah-ah, aja-ja-jay
Puro Jalisco, sí señor
Soy nacido en esta tierra y en el puente he de estirar
Soy de un pueblito chiquito, se llama Juanacatlán
Soy nacido en esta tierra y en el puente he de estirar
Soy de un pueblito chiquito, se llama Juanacatlán
Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores
La bixesada, nido de amores
Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores
La bixesada, nido de amores
Todos somos de Jalisco los que andamos por aquí
Tierra linda y soberana, te saludo desde aquí
Todos somos de Jalisco los que andamos por aquí
Tierra linda y soberana, te saludo desde aquí
Adiós, barrancas, donde he vivido
Tenlo presente, que no te olvido
Viva Jalisco, Tierra de amores
Lindas mujeres como las flores
The lyrics of "Son De Mi Tierra" by Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlan express a deep sense of pride, nostalgia, and longing for the homeland of Jalisco. The opening lines, "Y como dijo Vargas: 'no te rajes, Jalisco'," conveys a message of encouragement and resilience to not give up, echoing the sentiment of loyalty and attachment to their roots. The repetition of "Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy" emphasizes the absence from Jalisco and the yearning to return to their beloved land. The mention of God's will hints at a spiritual connection to their homeland and a sense of hope for a future reunion.
The imagery in the lyrics paints a vivid picture of the beauty and richness of Jalisco. The description of the land as "Qué linda tierra, qué bella es, con sus cascadas y ebrio a la vez" showcases the enchanting natural landscapes and the intoxicating allure of the region. The reference to being born in Juanacatlán highlights the personal connection the singer has to a specific town in Jalisco, imbuing the lyrics with a sense of intimate familiarity and belonging. The mention of "Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores, La bixesada, nido de amores" celebrates the natural beauty and romantic essence of Jalisco, further deepening the connection to the land.
The lyrics also serve as a tribute to the unity and solidarity among those who hail from Jalisco. The declaration that "Todos somos de Jalisco los que andamos por aquí" conveys a sense of shared identity and belonging among the people who carry the spirit of Jalisco with them wherever they go. The farewell to the cherished landscapes and heartfelt acknowledgment that "Tenlo presente, que no te olvido" reflects a deep appreciation and reverence for their homeland, ensuring that it will always hold a place in their hearts.
In conclusion, "Son De Mi Tierra" is a heartfelt homage to Jalisco, celebrating its beauty, culture, and the enduring bond that individuals have with their homeland. The lyrics capture the essence of nostalgia, pride, and love for Jalisco, evoking a sense of longing and reverence for the cherished memories and connections to the land that shaped their identity. The song serves as a tribute to the enduring spirit of Jalisco and the enduring love for the place that will always be home.
Writer(s): Jeronimo "pantalones" Mendez
Contributed by Liliana J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@marilenafdzzz
Ando ausente de Jalisco
Hace tiempo que no estoy
Aunque lejos de mi tierra
Si Dios quiere pronto voy.
(se repite)
¡Qué linda tierra!, ¡qué bella es!
Con sus casadas, y el río a la vez
(se repite)
Soy nacido en esta tierra y en
Y en el puente les diran
Soy de un pueblito chiquito
Se llama Juanacatlán
(se repite)
Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores
La brisa exhala, nido de amores
(se repite)
Todos somos de Jalisco
Los que andamos por aquí
Tierra linda y soberana
Te saludo desde aquí
(se repite)
Adiós, barrancas donde he vivido
Tenlo presente, que no te olvido
¡Viva Jalisco!, tierra de amores
Lindas mujeres, como las flores.
@Hola-bj5sf
Lyrics
Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy
Aunque lejos de mi tierra, si Dios quiere pronto voy
Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy
Aunque lejos de mi tierra, si Dios quiere pronto voy
Qué linda tierra, qué bella es
Con sus cascadas y ebrio a la vez
Qué linda tierra, qué bella es
Con sus cascadas y ebrio a la vez
Ah-ah-ah, aja-ja-jay
Puro Jalisco, sí señor
Soy nacido en esta tierra y en el puente he de estirar
Soy de un pueblito chiquito, se llama Juanacatlán
Soy nacido en esta tierra y en el puente he de estirar
Soy de un pueblito chiquito, se llama Juanacatlán
Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores
La bixesada, nido de amores
Son sus barrancas, sus lindas flores
La bixesada, nido de amores
Todos somos de Jalisco los que andamos por aquí
Tierra linda y soberana, te saludo desde aquí
Todos somos de Jalisco los que andamos por aquí
Tierra linda y soberana, te saludo desde aquí
Adiós, barrancas, donde he vivido
Tenlo presente, que no te olvido
Viva Jalisco, Tierra de amores
Lindas mujeres como las flores
@ulisesgabrielcastrosilva8264
Algún día me sentí pobre. Cuando Crecí supe que soy afortunado pues Nací en el mero centro de Guadalajara la Ciudad más bella de México y capital del estado más representativo de Nuestro país. Gracias Dios por haberme dado tan Gran dicha. VIVA JALISCO, VIVA MEXICO,🇲🇽 BENDICIONES PARA EL.MUNDO!!! 🙏
@elmerhomero3401
Paseaba por muchas veces por Juanacatlán y en el puente miraba una placa con parte de este son, lo ignoraba y ni en cuenta lo tomaba, hasta que le pregunte a un señor de edad y me dijo: eso es parte de un son, el son de mi tierra. Yege a casa y lo busque en you tube, y que hermosura de son me encontre, mejor que ni el son de la negra, desde entonces me fascina y la piel se me enchina cuando lo escucho. Desde Poncitlán Jalisco, un saludo a mi Juanacatlán querido que su gente me ha dado de comer por muchos años. Ahi trabajo.
@user-vj4ll6kh5c
Siiii Senor !!!
Ando ausente de Jalisco, hace tiempo que no estoy...
Aunque lejos de mi tierra, si Dios quiere pronto voy...
🗣 Ah-ah-ah-aja-ja-ja-jay !!!!
@RicardoGarcia-gh1fm
Representando la costa puerto vallarta jalisco presente viva jalisco
@juanayala1929
Como olvidar a jalisco si es mi tierra arandas jalisco si dios quiere regreso pronto y mi mero pueblito san jose de la paz jalisco
@lilianabriseno6709
Que hermosa cansion y que bonito es ser de Juanacatlán y así como dice la canción estamos lejos de mi tierra y siempre que voy se siente bien bonito bendecida de poder regresar a mi tierra ❤ saludos a la familia Briseño 🎉
@jesuscervantescastro8928
viva Jalisco...hoy y siempre!!!
@rfon1234
Como Jalisco no hay dos.
@juanpollo1229
Cada que escucho este chingon Son Siento que aki está mi Sr Padre escuchando lo Ya que el era de Juanacatlán Jalisco
@elchavovaldivia498
gacias a dios por darme la dicha de aber nacido en ese pueblo tan lindo como mi juanacatlan jalisco si señor