Bandas

Bandas is the plural form of banda in Spanish and can refer broadly to musical bands or ensembles. In Latin American contexts, the term is especially associated with a large brass-based ensemble tradition known as the Banda Sinaloense, a regional Mexican genre that originated in the state of Sinaloa and spread widely across northern Mexico and Mexican communities abroad.

The Banda Sinaloense emerged in the early 20th century, evolving from local military and dance bands. By the mid-20th century it had developed a distinctive brass-centered sound and ensemble format. Modern band ensembles commonly include tubas or sousaphones, trumpets, trombones, clarinets or saxophones, and a percussion section, all led by a director who sets tempo and arrangement. The sound is typically robust and high-energy, designed for outdoor performances and dances.

Repertoire for bandas spans dance-oriented tunes such as polkas, mazurkas, and waltzes, as well as rancheras and corridos. Performances are a staple at fiestas, weddings, and community dances, with vocalists delivering melodies over the horn-heavy accompaniment. Some repertoires include narco-corridos, songs that tell stories connected to crime or danger; these pieces have been controversial and subject to discussions about representation and censorship.

Cultural impact and notable groups: Banda El Recodo is among the most famous early-modern examples and helped popularize the sound beyond its regional base. Other well-known contemporary bandas include Banda Los Recoditos and Banda MS. Bandas function as cultural institutions in many communities, contributing to local economies, education, and the continuing evolution of regional Mexican music. The genre maintains a strong presence in festivals and the broader Latin music landscape, both in Mexico and internationally.