“La Época de Oro del Cine Mexicano,” was a time frame in Mexican history that spanned between 1936 through 1956. During this time, the United States and other European countries struggled to produce films as a result of the impact of War World II. The Mexican film industry however, reached new heights of economic success through its acquisition of new resources, and high quality films that were released. One of the stars that rose through this time period was none other than Pedro Infante.
WHO IS PEDRO INFANTE?
Pedro Infante was born on November 18, 1917 in Mazatlan, Sinaloa. He was the third of 15 children. As a young boy, Pedro held many jobs such as a carpenter, but displayed a love for music. His father who was a musician himself, taught Pedro his first musical lessons. The love of music combined with the knowledge he had from his carpentry job, helped him build his own guitar.
As he grew and started to perform more and more, his wife convinced him that he should move to Mexico City to pursue a career in music. A few years later in December of 1943, Pedro Infante recorded his first album, El Soldado Raso. That same year, Pedro landed his first leading role in the film, La Feria de Las Flores.
One of Pedro Infante’s passions in life was piloting. Under the pseudonym of Capitan Cruz, he logged 2,989 flight hours. Unfortunately, this passion would lead to his untimely death at the young age of 39. On a trip to Mexico City, the plane experienced engine failure and crashed shortly after takeoff.
HIS IMPACT ON THE MUSIC WORLD
Both his films and music, led to Pedro Infante becoming a Mexican Icon. In total, he appeared in approximately 60 films with some of his most famous work coming from his character, Pepe El Toro. His music remains popular even up to this date. There are many artists and mariachi ensembles that include his music in their repertoire and experience much success. Next time you are at a Mexican restaurant, or enjoying a mariachi show, pay close attention and you will most likely hear some of his songs being played.
Back in 2017, there were several Google Doodles that were produced to commemorate what would have been Pedro Infante’s 100th Birthday.
Pedro Infante has left a rich legacy of music that we as teachers, try to pass on to our students. Many of his songs such as La Burrita, have been taught to our students throughout the years. Check out this production of El Piojo y la Pulga that our Academy students recorded!
