Son Jarocho, a Type of Mexican Folk Music

Son Jarocho Son Jarocho is a type of Mexican folk music that originated in southern Veracruz, Mexico. The son genre was created in 17th and 18th century with influence from Spanish music styles and instruments. This fusion of the son genre brought upon the Son Jarocho among the coastal state of Veracruz. The Son Jarocho is a combination of Mexican, Spanish and West African influence. The West African influence comes from the slaves that were brought to Veracruz by the Spaniards. By the 19th century, this son genre was distinguished as highly developed regional variant. During the 20th century, it was spread out throughout Mexico. The Son Jaorcho has syncopation and percussive elements that are Mexican musical contributions. The standard instruments in the Son Jarocho include: the jarana jarocho, the requinto jarocho and the Veracruz harp. The most important instrument is the jarana jarocho that is an eight-string guitar. The requinto jarocho has four stings and they are plucked with a plastic pick. The Veracruz harp has 36 strings and is non-pedal harp. Each instrument is highlighted in a solo. There are also manicos that are patterns like the rasqueos, redobles, and apagones that are incorporated with the jarana playing. The Son Jarocho has a rapid tempo, ¾ meter. There are 2-3 chord progressions per son. Along with instruments, the main vocalist, the pregonero improvises verses. The vocalist usually has high-pitched voice with a tropical feel, a bit nasally and is playful in the chant. Another characteristic of the son Jarocho is the dance aspect. The “zapateado” footwork is an acoustic element and compliments the instruments and vocals.