Conjunto is a uniquely American musical genre, indigenous to South and Central Texas. Its development began more than a century ago when Texans of Mexican heritage (Tejanos) took an interest in the accordion music of German, Polish, and Czech immigrants. The ensuing Tejano accordion music, accompanied by the bajo sexto (replacing the European tuba) soon came to represent the Tejano way of life, which was closely associated with working in the agricultural fields. The music remains unchanged and serves as a symbol that binds many Tejano communities in South and Central Texas. Through local festivals and tardiadas, conjunto’s spirit of “alegre” is experienced through its lyrics, its dance, and its spirited beat, which is driven by the percussive rhythm provided by the bajo sexto.
The Tex-Mex Conjunto was established at UT Austin in the fall of 2006. Students have the opportunity to learn a repertoire of Texas Mexican music. There are no auditions, and the ensemble welcomes all levels from beginner to advanced. Music notation is available but is not a requirement to join.
upcoming performances
Conjunto Ensemble 5:00–5:45pm
Bereket Middle Eastern Ensemble. 6:00–7:00pm
Hispanic Caribbean Ensemble. 7:15–8:15pm
Joel Guzman, director
J.J. Barrera, director
Join
Conjunto is open to students university-wide, regardless of experience. Audition is not required.
Course
UNDERGRADUATE ENS 106C
GRADUATE ENS 186C
T-Th, 5–6:30p
MRH 6.252
INSTRUMENTATION
3-row diatonic accordion, bajo sexto, bass guitar, drum set, voice. Instruments are provided by the ensemble.
Musicology & Ethnomusicology Website