Overview

Mexico! A vibrant land of color and beautiful music. Moving literature and delicious food. Breathtaking natural scenery and awe-inspiring ancient cultures. In this book we've gathered over 80 children's songs and rhymes that are popular in Mexico, presented in their original Spanish language and with translations into English. Many have commentary sent to us by our correspondents who are immersed in the traditions and culture of Mexico. You'll find nursery rhymes like Tortillitas (Little Tortillas), circle games like A la rueda de San Miguel (The Circle of St. Miguel), and lullabies like Arrorró mi niño (Hush-a-bye My Baby). We've also included songs for special occasions like Las mañanitas (Little Morning) - a birthday and Mother's Day Song. And, of course, Cantos para romper la piñata (Songs for Breaking the Piñata), a collection of verses sung during one of our favorite Mexican traditions! There's not always a sharp distinction between songs sung by children and by adults. So we've included a sampling of popular traditional songs like De Colores (All the Colors). De colores is originally from Spain, as are many songs that are sung in both Mexico and many countries in South America. Mexico has had interesting influences from the Mayan and Aztec civilizations. So you'll find several songs here from those cultures, including Xtoles... which has one of the oldest musical melodies still known. At the end of each item, there's a web address to an online version of the song or rhyme. There we are often able to include sheet music, recordings and videos of performances. We hope this book will help foster a love of Mexican songs and culture all over the world! This book includes: -Mexican songs, rhymes, lullabies, and carols -Each in the original language and with translations into English -Commentary from ordinary people about what the songs have meant to their lives -Web links to recordings and sheet music -Illustrations