I am beginning to learn about traditional Mexican music styles. I have listed what I have observed thus far. I don't pretend to be an expert and would welcome further information, especially other popular regional styles, and a second representative performer for each of the last two categories. paulaH88@hotmail.com.

1. Mariachi.
• Trumpets prominent. Includes violins.
• Large bands. Members wear charro costumes.
• Mariachi Garibaldi
• Mariachi Sol de Mexico


2. Norteņo.
• Accordian prominent.
• Harsher voices.
• Tigres del Norte
• Ramon Ayala


3. Banda.
• Tubas prominent.
• Rowdy mixture of instruments.
• Banda el Recodo
• Banda Machos


4. Duranguense.
• Mix of instruments including brass.
• Melodious voices. Strong oom-pah sound.
• Alacranes Musical
• Grupo Montez de Durango


5. Ranchera.
• Solo singer.
• Lovely music.
• Vicente Fernandez.


6. Balados y Boleros.
• Solo singer. Style of It's Impossible.
• Sounds less traditional Mexican than Ranchera.
• Luis Miguel