Characterizing the music of Campanas de America
as simply "mariachi" does
not describe the entire musical spectrum produced by this group
of multi-talented musicians. This premier American musical ensemble
is made so distinct by its' ability to combine traditional Mexican
mariachi music with Latin and mainstream pop rhythms. From the
traditional folkloric "La Negra" to toe-tapping, boot-scootin "Lone
Star Medley", Campanas de America typifies the essence
of what it means to be a Mexican-American.
Under the charge of Musical Director, Juan Ortiz, Campanas
de America appeals to a wide audience. Young, old, Spanish
and non-Spanish speaking are fascinated with the sights and
sounds of this modern day, maverick mariachi group. Often times,
spectators are so moved by the music that they forge an impromptu
dance floor in mid-performance. Dancing coupled with "gritos",
or Mexican yells of enthusiasm, transforms a Campanas concert
into an instant fiesta.
Founded in 1978 in San Antonio, TX, Campanas de America (Bells
of America) was named after Belle Ortiz, Juan's wife and the
group's manager. Through their tireless efforts and dedication,
the troupe quickly gained national recognition and public support,
and has attributed much of its' success to the philosophy that "education is key".
Campanas has and continues to be one of the main forces behind
mariachi education programs in public schools. Much so, that
several of the members of Campanas are instructors in various
public school musical programs in their hometown of San Antonio,
TX.
There are many factors that make Campanas an innovative mariachi and none is
most apparent than the presence of the accordion, keyboards, and percussive
instruments. The introduction of these instruments gives Campanas unmatched
versatility and enhances the non-traditional music.
Through the years, Campanas de America has gained broader national and international
recognition from performances across the country. In fact, they are the first
and only mariachi to display an instrument at the internationally recognized
Hard Rock Café. Their list of appearances are numerous and just to
name a few include:
Aladdin Casino, Las Vegas Willie Nelson Farm Aid
Bally's Hotel & Casino Austin Music Hall, (in conjunction
w/ SXSW) Kumamoto Festival, Japan Hollywood Bowl
The Kennedy Center for San Antonio Symphony Pops Concert(s)
The Performing Arts Houston Symphony Concert-"Fiesta Sinfonica"
The Hispanic Heritage Awards
1996-Presidential Hispanic Inaugural Gala (Wash., D.C.)
2003-Performance at the White House for President & Mrs. Bush
In addition, Campanas continues to offer
numerous mariachi workshops and concerts in schools as well
as participate in "Grammy in
the Schools", a program through the national Academy of Recording
Arts & Sciences (NARAS). Campanas also continues to be featured
artists at state fairs, festivals, and theme parks. Campanas'
popularity continues to increase, as they are quickly becoming
a "national treasure".
