Why are mariachi bands called bands?

The term "band" in this context refers to a group of musicians who perform together, typically playing wind and percussion instruments. The word "band" is more generally used to describe musical ensembles of various sizes and instrumentations, including orchestras, concert bands, jazz bands, and rock bands.

In the case of mariachi bands, they are typically composed of a group of musicians who play traditional Mexican instruments, such as the vihuela, guitarrón, violin, trumpet, and guitar. The word "band" is used to describe these groups because they are ensembles of musicians who perform together, similar to other types of musical bands.