Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000

Dec 1

Reviving a Legacy.

When you think of mariachi music, what are some of the images that come to mind? Some people may be inclined to think of a restaurant with a small trio of men serenading a couple on a date. Though mariachi music may have been created by a group of men in Mexico, nowadays we are starting to see full mariachis being formed solely comprised of women. This month’s featured artist is a group comprised of talented women from all walks of life; Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000. Directed by Pat Fernandez, the group is a tribute to the original Mariachi Mujer 2000, from which some of its members were originally a part of. These women have begun a new legacy and have helped break the glass ceiling that once stopped so many women from participating in the mariachi world.

Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000, in their own words, are continuing the legacy of previous mariachi pioneers Laura Sobrino and Marisa Orduño. The original Mariachi Mujer 2000 was under the direction of Marisa Orduño with late and pioneering Laura Sobrino as the musical director. The new group consists of members who have performed with the original Mujer 2000 as well as Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles and various other all female groups from around the country.

**Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000 performed at the Hollywood Bowl for Mariachi USA in 2019**

Women did not easily come into the mariachi world. In the beginning it was unheard of to have a woman play in mariachi, let alone start her own group. Laura Sobrino was one of the first women to play in a professional group. She was once a member of Mariachi Sol de Mexico for a period of time before she helped form their sister group, Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. As the world has become more accepting, women have continued to perform with professional male ensembles as well as begin their own female groups.

I first saw Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000 in concert at the Albuquerque Mariachi Spectacular in 2019. I believe it was their debut performance as an all new group, and I was blown away at their talent and professionalism. I was excited to see a new female group step up to the plate and being a fan of the original Mujer 2000, I was excited to see the revival of one of my all-time favorite groups.

The role of women in mariachi is so important for younger generations of girls to see. Growing up, I remember seeing so many amazing all male groups. However, the first time I saw a professional all female mariachi perform was the first time I truly felt included in the mariachi community. I felt like I had something to look forward to. It made the idea of pursuing mariachi as a career less farfetched than it seemed. It is for this reason I believe that female groups are as important to mariachi as their male counterparts. Regardless of gender, mariachi music is the sould of Mexico and thanks to gorups of women like Mariachi Nuevo Mujer 2000, this legacy of music may be preserved and inspire the next generation to take up the mantle and continue the legacy.

By Yasmine Durazo