Mariachi is a musical tradition often hired to perform at a Mexican quinceañera.
A mariachi ensemble may play during the reception, serenade the honoree, or perform well-known songs requested by the family. Its sound is strongly associated with Mexican cultural celebrations and can provide both ceremonial music and entertainment.
Mariachi is not the required music for every quinceañera. The celebration may instead feature a DJ, a live band, recorded popular music, or regional musical traditions from another country. Mexican families may also combine mariachi with a separate dance orchestra or DJ.
Mariachi refers to an ensemble tradition rather than one single song. Typical instruments can include violins, trumpets, guitars, vihuelas, and guitarrón. The music should not be confused with flamenco, which is associated primarily with Andalusian Spain.