While Mariachi music’s traditional folk style has its roots in Mexican history, the genre has made its way across the continent. The music officially arrived at Northwestern with the help of a team of student musicians that established Mariachi Northwestern. The group brought mariachi’s distinctive mix of bright brass, sharp strings and sweet Spanish melodies to NU in 2012.
Between performing shows and shooting videos of their own version of the primal scream in the library, Mariachi Northwestern can also be found surprising fellow students with romantic ballads.
Weinberg junior Belinda Niu received a very special Valentine’s Day gift this past winter. She recalls looking up at the bleachers during tennis practice when mariachi music began blasting through SPAC, not realizing the serenade was directed at her.
“I was really surprised and a little embarrassed, but I also thought it was a really nice gesture, probably one of the most unique Valentine’s gifts I’ve ever gotten,” Niu says.
Daniel Flores, a Communication junior and president of Mariachi Northwestern, says all the serenades have been fun, and there’s never been a negative reaction.
“Belinda’s coach thought it was hilarious,” he says.
But the group doesn’t joke around when it comes to style. Its loyalty to the traditions of mariachi performance is part of what makes a surprise serenade so special.
“I definitely think what Daniel has done in starting Mariachi Northwestern is really cool,” Niu says. “He took the initiative to bring a unique type of music to campus and also a unique group. I know there are a lot of a cappella groups, but I don’t think there are many groups on campus that just go around playing music.”
Flores says the Spanish language is one of the driving factors in the romanticism of the music. “Ella,” one of his favorites, is actually a sad tale of lost love, but when sung in Spanish with the accompaniment of the vihuela, a string instrument, it automatically becomes swoon-worthy.
The musicians have expanded their reach past serenades for undergrads. They’re now booked for several other gigs and even a couple of weddings.
“I think it’s something very different,” Flores says. “Our uniforms are very professional, so it’s not just some random guys in skinny jeans and flannel shirts singing on the guitar. It’s the complete package. It’s something you’re not used to, something people aren’t expecting. It’s innovative, unconventional.”