Genaro Codina

Zacatecas

Genaro Codina (1852 - 1901) was born in Zacatecas, mining city on the the semi-arid plains of the north central Mexican state of the same name. While he enjoyed playing several instruments, he preferred the portable folk harp, and he took this with him when he was incarcerated in the prison of El Cobre (reasons unknown) where he entertained his comrades with music and learning a large number of folk songs which were later used in his compositions. The march 'Zacatecas' was composed as part of a march composition contest sponsored by Codina's brother-in-law. After winning he contest, it became so popular that it is considered Mexico's 'second national anthem.' This edition has been arranged for symphonic band by Richard Thurston.