Historians believe that mariachi grew from a blending of global traditions. Sixteenth-century Spanish musicians, who were traveling with explorer Hernán Cortés, incorporated the New World’s Mexican music and songs of regional Black slaves into something truly unique and timeless. Today, mariachi is enjoyed worldwide. On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, you can hear the newest generation of this iconic sound at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Mariachi Herencia de México is a Chicago-based group of musicians ages 18 to 32 representing a bicultural generation of Americans passionate about keeping mariachi both relevant and fresh.
Olympia’s visit is part of their La Nueva Generación Tour, which runs into the new year. Herencia Records founder César Maldonado explains that “this band is a consistent group of musicians, 14 young artists from the U.S. and Mexico who together represent the new face of mariachi and we expect to surpass 100 shows through 2026.”
Maldonado says that their concerts are more than just music, they’re a journey across Mexico. “We showcase and celebrate the different regional styles and rhythms, weaving them into a powerful performance with both instrumental brilliance and passionate singing,” he adds.
Journey Across Mexico with the Signature Soulful Sound of Authentic Mariachi
Mexico’s 31 states across nine regions each bring a unique flavor to mariachi music. Maldonado says that audiences are often surprised by the diversity within mariachi. “It’s not just one style, it embraces boleros, sones, rancheras, huapangos and more,” he adds. “Each carries its own story and regional flavor. At its heart, mariachi is a blend of sophistication and raw emotion, an art form that speaks directly to people whether or not they grew up with it.”
The group, which began in 2017, embraces that uniqueness. Maldonado started a musical program for Latino youth in Chicago’s inner city. His first generation of Mariachi Herencia de México players were from those classes and as the project grew, came to include some of the best mariachi musicians from across North America.
Student Matinee at the Washington Center
To encourage Thurston County youth, they will be hosting an educational student matinee while the group is in town. The Washington Center’s Tineke Raak explains that their team is “working with multiple school districts to bring middle school and high school students to see this show as well. Each year, thousands of students step into the Washington Center to experience the magic of live performance, often for the very first time.”
These educational matinees are designed to support classroom learning across music, dance, visual art, science and cultural studies all under one roof. Student matinees spark curiosity, inspire imagination and leave lasting memories for young people.
Get Your Mariachi Herencia de México Tickets Today and See Culture Come to Life
There’s nothing quite like live music. It can tell a story, invoke a mood, inspire, enlighten or just plain delight. Thanks to Mariachi Herencia de México, culture comes to life at downtown Olympia’s Washington Center for the Performing Arts.
“This tour is more than entertainment,” says Maldonado, “it’s about pride, identity and honoring our heritage while inspiring the next generation. Our concerts are designed for everyone: families, longtime fans of mariachi and those discovering the tradition for the first time. It’s a celebration where all ages can connect to the music and culture. We want audiences to leave not only uplifted, but also with a deeper appreciation for Mexico’s rich cultural legacy.”
Don’t miss out on the fun, get your own tickets for the performance and experience the sheer joy of mariachi yourself. The show takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15. Tickets can be purchased online, by calling 360.753.8586 or at the Washington Center Box Office. The ticket window is open from noon until 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday or two hours before any ticketed event. Email boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org with questions.
Travel across the centuries, continent and cultures of Mexico without leaving home, thanks to Mariachi Herencia de México.
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Read about more upcoming shows at the Washington Center for Performing Arts here.
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