In Caldwell, Idaho, an enthusiastic group of young musicians eagerly prepare for their performance in the Cantares de Mexico band, a mariachi ensemble that plays a significant role in their cultural and social lives. On a recent Wednesday evening, three girls worked together, applying makeup to a fellow bandmate to create a skull design in honor of Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, a holiday that celebrates departed loved ones and is observed on November 1-2. This upcoming performance, part of the celebrations at JUMP, serves as a platform for the youth to bond, share their musical talents, and maintain their cultural heritage in a region where Latino representation is still developing.
For many of the group members, this connection to their roots emphasizes the importance of celebrating their identity. Twelve-year-old Temo Amaral remarked, “(Connecting to your roots) makes you feel like you’re alive,” highlighting the ongoing significance of cultural participation for younger generations, especially in areas with a smaller Latino population. The practice session featured students playing various instruments, including trumpets, violins, and vihuelas, under the guidance of Saul Arreola, the son of the group’s director, who directed the practice in both Spanish and English. As excitement built for their upcoming performance, the young musicians practiced diligently, reflecting their passion for both the music and the cultural significance behind it.
Cruz Arreola, the director of Cantares de Mexico, views this mariachi program as a vital activity for children in their community. Drawing from his family’s deep roots in Mexican music traditions, notably from Jalisco, Cruz aims to offer young people an opportunity to engage with their heritage through music. He noted the growing need for cultural programs in the area, stating, “There’s a lot of need for mariachi in this area. There’s a lot of Hispanics … and other people like mariachi.” Through this program, he not only strives to enhance the musicianship of the kids but also to strengthen community ties and foster camaraderie among participants.
The collective experience is much more than just music; it becomes a source of friendship and mutual support. For instance, Lizette Rodriguez, a 13-year-old band member, expressed how the group operates like a family, stating “We all talk with each other. We all hang out with each other.” This social interaction creates a nurturing environment where young musicians can share their experiences and support each other in their musical and personal journeys. The benefits of engagement in music extend beyond mere performance; the youth find in it an avenue for emotional expression and connection, as noted by Natalie Pina, who remarked, “Music is more like a thing where you can express your emotions.”
Through their participation, these young musicians also bridge generational gaps, fostering intergenerational relationships that enrich their understanding of cultural heritage. Sixteen-year-old Aokee Ibanez spoke about bonding with her grandparents through music, emphasizing the shared experience that can strengthen familial connections. Similarly, 17-year-old Juan Arriaga described how his involvement in the band helped him overcome shyness, revealing that performing in mariachi groups has always been a dream for him. Reflecting on his journey, he stated, “I felt like music for me was like a gateway to my happy spot,” showcasing how the art form provides solace and excitement in times of stress.
As the group gears up for their much-anticipated performance at JUMP, it is evident that Cantares de Mexico plays a crucial role in the lives of these young musicians. The sense of community, the opportunity for cultural engagement, and the platform for musical growth contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences that define their youth in Idaho. The performance begins at 5 p.m. on Saturday at JUMP, bringing together family, friends, and supporters to celebrate not just the Día de los Muertos but also cultural vitality through the lens of mariachi music. Participants and organizers encourage those interested to visit the JUMP website for further details, inviting the community to experience and appreciate the vibrant traditions that the young musicians represent.
