Mariachi Band Takes Center Stage in Lexington
LEXINGTON, Ky. — When you think of high school music programs, you might imagine the strong notes of a marching band or the harmonious blend of voices in a choir. But at Bryan Station High School, something different is happening! A vibrant mariachi band, known as Mariachi Escudo, is tuning up for their exciting first performance of the school year.
A Unique Journey Begins
Genaro Rascon, the director of this talented group, shares his journey to Kentucky. “I moved to Kentucky seven years ago,” he explains. Before his time here, he was a mariachi instructor at Berea College. “I discovered that our superintendent, Demetrus Liggins, often talked about establishing a mariachi program. Coming from Texas, where mariachi music flourishes, he wanted to bring that experience to Fayette County, but was struggling to find someone to lead it.”
Once Rascon stepped in, the response from the students was overwhelming. “I was like, that sounds fun,” recalls Juan Betancourt, a dedicated trumpet player. “I joined, and now I think I’m going to do it all four years.” His enthusiasm mirrors the excitement among his peers.
Janely Hernandez, a spirited violinist, notes, “There was always an interest in it, mostly between the guys, but when the school brought it in, I guess it made people want to do it more.”
Culture and Connection
Rascon emphasizes how crucial having a mariachi program is for him. “It’s my mission to promote mariachi education in this part of the country,” he says earnestly. Thankfully, Bryan Station High School is home to over 1,000 students who speak multiple languages, creating a perfect setting for this cultural initiative.
During their practice sessions, the group started off with basic and simple melodies. As they progressed, they began to tackle more traditional mariachi songs like Arboles de la Barranca. Janely recalls, “We practiced with basic, simple songs. Then we kind of got into more simple mariachi songs, and then we just progressed from there!”
Assistant director Nathan Bailey remarked, “It’s really important that students get to see a culture that they connect with. That helps them connect with the music even a little bit more.”
A Growing Band with Style
Fast forward a year, and this band has seen significant growth! The members are proud to wear uniforms, known as Trajes de Charros, adding a touch of tradition to their performances. “Being able to actually be in the Trajes, it’s like, wow, we’re actually mariachi now,” Janely added, reflecting on the pride instilled in them by these outfits.
During one class, Rascon took the time to educate his students about the history of the Trajes, saying, “It is not a costume. It is a suit. This is the type of suit that Mexican nobility used to wear.” His enthusiasm fostered a richer understanding of their heritage among the students.
Debut Performance on the Horizon
Finally, the much-anticipated debut performance is around the corner! With excitement in the air, the students are ready to showcase their passion for music and culture this Sunday, September 15, at 7 p.m. at the Viva Mexico Festival in Masterson Station Park.
“Every single time we go out on the stage and perform somewhere here in Kentucky, somebody out there is seeing mariachi for the first time,” Rascon proudly shares with the students. “Like it or not, we are now the representatives of this culture in Kentucky.”
“I love being able to show and give insight into what we usually do and how we celebrate,” Janely added. “This isn’t just about the iconic things like food and sombreros; it’s also about the music that we create.”
With every strum of the guitar and beat of the drum, these students of Bryan Station High School are not just playing music; they are bringing a piece of their culture to life right here in Lexington!
