The music originated in the center-west of Mexico. Most claims for its origin lie in the state of Jalisco but neighboring states of Colima, Nayarit, and Michoacán have also claimed it.

mariachi, small Mexican musical ensemble composed of a variety of mostly stringed instruments. In addition to referring to an ensemble, the term mariachi is also used for the individual performer of mariachi music or for the music itself.

Mariachi music is unique in its ability to incorporate different musical traditions while remaining closely associated with mestizo Mexican identities. It has become one of the most salient symbols that people associate with Mexican culture.

Today, mariachi bands usually feature at least four musicians. Often, they include as many as a dozen or more! Traditional mariachi instruments are the violin, guitar, guitarrón, and vihuela (a small five-string guitar with a round back).