While Mariachi bands date back to 18th-century Mexico, it wasn’t until the 20th century that the music transformed regional folk music into more of an urban phenomenon. During Season 2 of Bilingual in America, we first introduced the White Plains, NY High School Mariachi band as part of our episode titled "Music as a Global Language". Today’s episode goes a bit deeper as we hear from student musicians and Teacher Director extraordinaire, Zachary May.

White Plains High School is proud to have been the first Mariachi high school band in New York State. Its members are now celebrating their 9th year as performers. The bands' student musicians hail from Mexico, Colombia, and the United States. Let's listen in to hear about the White Plains High School Mariachi Band family, where student musicians Emiliano, Pamela, Angel, and their bandmates reveal their passion for music, the importance of having fun while performing, and so much more.