The Diversified Music Culture of The Filipinos
The Philippines is a country that is rich in its culture, heritage, religion, festivals, social beliefs, customs, literature, arts, music, dance, cuisine, clothing, and sports. Philippine music is composed in various genres and styles that are beyond comparison. Its music is a perfect blend of the east and the west. It is influenced by almost all the cultures in the country and its composition is a mixture of different Asian, Spanish, American and indigenous influences.
However, there are three main roots of Filipino music. They are classified as follows:
An old Asian influenced music referred to as the indigenous.
A piece of religious and secular music influenced by Spanish and European forms.
An American/European inspired classical, semi-classical, and popular music.
The traditional folk songs are inspired by indigenous customs and beliefs. Notable folk song composers include the National Artist for Music Lucio San Pedro, who composed the famous ‘Sa Ugoy Ng Duyan’ that narrates the loving touch of a mother to her child. Another great composer is Antonio Buenaventura who is well known for his patriotic compositions.
The music composed in urban areas of the Philippines is targeted for the youth popularly referred to as original Pinoy music or Philippine pop music. Some popular musicians of this genre include Sarah Geronimo, Christian Bautista, Yeng Constantino and some groups such as Yano, The Teeth, True Faith and Neocolours.
Another category is choir music. As the name suggests it dates back to the choirs of churches that sing during mass. This music is not restricted to churches but also widely sung in universities, schools and local communities. Some popular ones include Robert Delgado, Fidel Calalang, Eudenice Palaruan, and some groups include the Philippine Madrigal Singers, University of Santo Tomas Singers, the Philippine Meistersingers, the U.P. Singing Ambassadors, and U.P. Concert Chorus.
Apart from the above, other popular music genres including jazz, hip hop, reggae, and Latino. The most influential rappers include Francis M, Gloc-9, and Andrew E. The popular jazz groups include W.D.O.U.J.I. Johnny Alegre Affinity and artists include Mon David, Mishka Adams.
It can be understood that music is an important culture of Filipinos. They are completely into the diversified forms of music. To know more about the different musical instruments that are used by these popular groups and musicians, check Global Music, an online music store in the Philippines.
