Sigan la Bandera (Follow the Banner) is a musical celebration of Mary, who appeared to St. Juan Diego as the Virgin of Guadalupe in 1531, and who continues to inspire and intercede for the people of Mexico, the Americas and all who seek her help.
Music in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe
For centuries, pilgrims have "followed" and made processions to her "banner," the cloth from Juan''s cloak on which her image miraculously appeared. These 12 new and traditional Marian songs will delight all who love the
mariachi music of Mexico and all who have a special devotion to "la morenita."
Captures all the color and mystique of mariachi
Expertly performed by the ensemble Mariachi Tepeyac, with Donna on vocals and flute,
Sigan la Bandera captures all the color and mystique of this spirited music. Besides seven beloved, traditional songs, the collection includes two new compositions by Donna.
"There is truly nothing like it"
"There is no greater pride in Mexico than the look of the
charro," she explains, "and the sound of the violins, trumpets, guitars,
guitarron and
vihuela that make up the
mariachi. With the opening statements of these instruments, one hears the
gritos and roars of approval by those who come to listen. There is truly nothing like it."
Beloved, traditional Marian songs
"Mi Virgen Ranchera" is a very popular song by the famous Mexican composer Chucho Monje. "Virgen Mambisa" is a flamboyant song by Cuban nationals Rogelio Zelada and Orlando Rodríguez of Miami. Many will also recognize "Santa María del Camino," a well-known song by Spanish composer Juan Antonio Espinosa.
New music by Donna Peña
Donna composed "Ruega por Nosotros" to express gratitude to Mary, who is with us-and one of us-in the midst of all our struggles. A medley combining a traditional song with a something Donna learned from the Mexican community growing up in Minnesota, "El Adiós de un Soldado/Adiós, O Virgen de Guadalupe" is a touching remembrance of young people leaving for war.
Great listening any time of year
Of course, the music of
Sigan la Bandera will be especially meaningful on December 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe; it can create a "Mañanitas" experience for that celebration. But these mariachi serenades in honor of Mary make delightful listening any time of the year.
