Mexico opening first mariachi school

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- A Mexican cultural center says it is opening the country's first school dedicated to mariachi music.

Mariachi performing has traditionally been something passed down through families. But school director Leticia Soto Flores says there is increasing demand for mariachi instruction.

The Ollin Yoliztli Cultural Center is opening the mariachi school Oct. 8 at the Plaza Garibaldi in downtown Mexico City. The plaza is a traditional site for strolling mariachis.

The school begins accepting applications Monday and will consider 200 applicants for 72 positions in the first class, which will graduate in three years. The school will cost the equivalent of $190 a year.

It will include classes in trumpet, violin and guitar, along with music theory and the history of mariachi music.