1. Accordion: The accordion is a prominent instrument in tejano music, with accordionists often playing lead melodies, solos, and accompaniment.
2. Bajo Sexto: This 12-string bass guitar-like instrument provides rhythmic accompaniment and low-end frequencies to tejano music.
3. Guitar: Electric guitars, acoustic guitars, and nylon-string guitars are used in tejano, enhancing the harmonic textures of the music.
4. Drums: A drum set consisting of kick, snare, hi-hats, and cymbals provides the rhythmic foundation for tejano music.
5. Keyboard: Keyboards, including electric pianos, synthesizers, and organs, are used for adding harmonic and melodic elements.
6. Trumpet: The trumpet is often used for playing melodies, solos, and characteristic embellishments in tejano music.
7. Saxophone: Saxophones, particularly the tenor saxophone, are common in tejano and contribute to the melodic and improvisational aspects of the music.
8. Trombone: The trombone adds warmth and depth to tejano arrangements and is used for both melodic and harmonic parts.
9. Maracas and Guiro: These percussion instruments add rhythmic flavor to tejano music by producing shakeable and scraping sounds.
10. Vocals: Lead singers and backing vocalists are crucial components of tejano music, delivering heartfelt performances both in Spanish and English.
It's important to note that the instrumentation can vary depending on the band or artist's musical preferences and arrangements, with some incorporating additional instruments like congas, timbales, and various other percussion instruments.