In a demand return engagement , Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán will perform in a festive holiday gala of music, dance and regional classics on December 4 at the Valley Performing Arts Center located on the campus of CSUN.
Founded in 1897 by Gaspar Vargas, these quintessential kings of Mexican folk music earned their reputation as el mejor mariachi del mundo (the best mariachi group in the world) by virtue of their commitment to tradition and emphasis on superior musicianship and singing ability. Breaking new ground, the legendary group added to its prolific collection a first-ever mariachi opera – Cruzar La Cara de la Luna (To Cross the Face of the Moon) – which debuted in November 2010 and was created by the group’s musical director José “Pepe” Martinez, Sr.
The current group of players in Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán are known as the fifth generation which began in 2003. 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 range from the traditional songs and classical works to new music and potpourris that continue to delight audiences everywhere. In the 117 years since its founding, the group has gone through many changes. While there has been some departure from tradition during that time, the group has maintained its roots through their always virtuosic performances of traditional Mexican songs and newer pieces in the traditional style.
Tickets can be purchased at http://www.valleyperformingartscenter.org/calendar/mariachi-vargas-de-tecalitlan-2014/view/2014-12-04.