Conjunto Texan Music
Uploaded by hecma on May 06, 2007
Tejano Origins
Songs of the Homeland by independent producer, Hector Galán, is an introduction to Tejano music. This documentary serves as a musical study and as social history. Through the eyes and voices of those who have helped to keep this tradition alive, we are able to trace the history of Tejano music. Songs of the Homeland offers a broad historical time span, clear musical connections to both rural and urban social contexts and significantly treats Orquesta and contemporary Tejano music.
Songs of the Homeland brings the story of Tejano music to life by looking at musicians who have played key roles in keeping the tradition alive through following generations. Conjunto was born in the 19th century, when Valley Tejano musicians adapted the accordion music of German and Eastern European settlers. Conjunto music has humble immigrant origins. It was very common to have bands at the fields playing for its audience, the working class. From its ranchero past to its growing future, conjunto is a joyous celebration of life and love and sometimes, even tears.
Tejano music is a rich part of the fabric of American cultural history. The number of Mexican Americans in the States today has multiplied since the 1930’s. That being true results in a large percentage of people who have deep roots connected to Tejano music. Tejanos have turned to their unique musical traditions for inspiration and entertainment. This music is the medium that reflects the Mexican-American spirit. The music, like the people, has been shaped by the experience of living between the two cultures, American and Mexican. It gives rise to a genre that is neither entirely Mexican nor American.
Conjunto was isolated until World War II, when Chicanos served as soldiers and moved to the cities. Before this, Tejanos dealt with discrimination and it continued after the war. The only difference was that Tejanos were no longer capable or willing to be treated so unfairly. As things in politics began to transform, so did the music. The growing middle class began dancing to the stylish orchestra sounds of Isidro Lopez. Polka accordionist, Tony de la Rosa, introduced drums and electric instruments to post-war conjunto. Mexican music with a stronger American and European influence began to become popular. Tejano was influenced by Jazz, Rock and Roll and even Pop. A new standard in Tejano music was...