If your exposure to mariachi music has been limited to a venue that includes chips n salsa and half-price happy-hour margaritas, then you havent truly experienced the vibrant and energetic genre, one which deserves a listen in a real concert setting. Check that off your bucket list and get in the holiday spirit at the same time when the Society for the Performing Arts presents Fiesta Navidad Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. The Grammy Award-winning L.A. group, led by Natividad Nati Cano, may be best known to gringos for appearances on the Linda Ronstadt records Canciones de Mi Padre and Mas Canciones, but theyve been touring and recording on their own since the early 60s. And even if you cant tell your vihuela from your guitarrón or your only exposure to Latino Christmas music comes via José Feliciano, one shot of a mariachi singers full-throated vocals can provide more kick than the strongest tequila. 8 p.m. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. For information, call 713-227-4772 or visit www.spahouston.org. $22 to $62.
Thu., Dec. 4, 8 p.m., 2008