Mariachi Charanda Mariachi Charanda Mariachi Charanda is a traditional mariachi or “son” musical group from Mexico. The group works to conserve the version of this music, originally done only with string instruments, working with educational and cultural institutions to present this antique style of music all over Mexico and abroad. Founded in 1979, the group has been together over thirty years, with members José Luis Perujo on the violin, Javier Lassard on violin, Carlos Carral in Mexican vihuela, Sergio Mendez on guitarra de golpe, Emilio Perujo on guitarrón mexicano, with vocals by María Perujo. The group’s repertoire mostly consists of traditional son
Mariachi song due to voice qualities. Mariachi vocalization shows influences from a number of styles such as bolero (a romantic style), huapango (using falsetto), son jalisciense (an aggressive style) and more. Voices must be strong to be heard over amplified instruments. Vocal style emphasizes operatic qualities and instrumental performance demonstrates a level of virtuosity that reflects advanced musical training. Historically, mariachi groups have been made up of men but there is growing acceptance of female mariachis. As mariachi groups are expected to play requests, they may need to know hundreds of different songs. Most songs are about machismo, love, betrayal, death,