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Abstract
The viola is a stringed instrument notorious for having a limited selection of repertoire that features it as a soloist when compared to other members of the string family such as violin, cello, or guitar. In recent times, many works have been written to better perpetuate the idea of the viola as a solo instrument by creating works that highlight its unique characteristics such as a rich tenor register, warm timbre, and a balance between bright and dark sonorities. However, one genre that can largely benefit from exploring the viola’s potential is Mariachi music. The goal of this capstone project is to produce arrangements for string ensemble that feature soloistic opportunities for the viola using Mariachi music.The first chapter introduces historical context to Mariachi music, listing key figures who contributed to its spread across North America, describing common musical characteristics of the genre, and providing an arrangement of José Alfredo Jimenez “Sin Nos Dejan”. Chapter two describes mariachi’s gain in popularity across the Americas throughout the twentieth century highlighting factors such as mass migration and the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema. It also provides an arrangement of Vicente Fernandez’s “Un Millón de Primaveras” and “El Último Beso.” The final chapter will describe today’s mariachi scene, significant programs and figures creating cultural waves, and provide arrangements of Aida Cuevas “Que Buena Suerte” and “Quizás Mañana.” All arrangements will feature an ensemble of two violins, one viola, one cello, and a double bass to help accompany the solo viola. Additionally, these innovative string arrangements aim to be used as learning tools for violists to explore their ability to explore “tonalization,” that is, tone-based resonance from their instruments.
INDEX WORDS: Mariachi Music, String ensemble arrangements for Viola, Solo Viola, José Alfredo Jimenez, Vicente Fernandez, Aida Cuevas, Learning tools for strings