Cultural combinaciones

When Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano first performed at the Philharmonic Society of Orange County it was much like any concert — it was only about the music.

But now it’s so much more.

“The program has really evolved over the years,� said Jose Delgado, the show’s manager and producer, as he looked forward to the band’s 15th year performing “Fiesta Navidad� in Costa Mesa. “What began as a musical variety show has developed into a Christmas journey told through Mariachi music.�

“Our intent is to put on a holiday show that will bring people together, and make them ponder cultural and familial traditions.�

The Philharmonic Society of Orange County will present the Grammy-Award winning Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Orange County Performing Arts Center’s Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.

The 10-man band of five violinists, two trumpeters, a folk harpist, guitarron and viuhela player, will open with “La Posada,� the traditional reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey into Bethlehem in search of lodging.

They will then perform traditional Mexican Christmas songs, including “La Raspa� and “Jarabe Tapagio� (better known as the Mexican Hat Dance), as well as “Feliz Navidad� and American favorites including “Silent Night� for an audience sing-along.

Members of Danza Teocalt will also perform a special colonial Mexican dance.

Sergio “Checo� Alonso, a folk harpist who has toured with the band for 11 years, said he always looks forward to “Fiesta Navidad� because it spreads the Mexican tradition throughout America, and because it’s a nice treat for families.

“It combines Mexico’s most celebrated music ensemble with its biggest [holiday] tradition,� he said. “It’s also outside-of-the-box Mariachi music, which makes it great fun to perform.�

Founded by Cano in 1961, Mariachi Los Camperos is one of the oldest Latin bands in Los Angeles. It was here that Cano emerged as an instrumental driving force behind preserving Mariachi music in the United States.

The ensemble’s popularity grew tremendously as a result of its collaboration on Linda Ronstadt albums, “Canciones de Mi Padre� and “Mas Canciones.� In addition to a 2006 Grammy nomination for best Mexican/Mexican-American album (Llegaron Los Camperos), the band has also appeared on “The Tonight Show.�

“Mariachi wasn’t recognized as an art form until Linda gave it some credibility,� Delgado said. “We are very thankful for this opportunity, and to the Philharmonic Society’s support for making it so popular in this country.�

Dean Corey, president and artistic director of the Philharmonic Society, said he has remained a fan of “Fiesta Navidad� over the years and has continued to support the performance because of its colorful and feel-good vibes.

“The music is infectious, whether Mariachi music is your cup of tea or not,� he said. “And if you like this type of music, this is as good as it gets.

“This show is a great way to kick off the winter season and get excited for the holidays.�

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Fiesta Navidad�

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.

COST: $30 to $60.

INFORMATION: Call (949) 553-2422 or visit www.philharmonicsociety.org.