Music

Traditional Musical Instruments Of The Philippines

We welcomed 2019 in a traditional way in the Philippines by following the blog. Kamusta Filipinos! Let us Welcome 2019 In A Traditional way.

The current blog will focus on the most traditional musical instruments of the Philippines. We Filipinos are music lovers. However, at present, our music is highly influenced by American pop music. Long before the Spaniards arrived in this country, our ancestors had possessed their own musical instruments. Today we will discuss some of the most popular traditional instruments that reflect our heritage. Let us get started.

The Kubing

The Kubing is a jaw harp made of bamboo reed that is played on the lips. It is used to play to communicate with the family member s and loved ones, especially during courtship. The name differs in different regions such as Meranao in Southern Mindanao, Barmbow by Tagalogs, Kulaing for the Kapampangans, Kinaban for the Hanunoo Mangyans, Koding by the Ibaloi and Kalinga, and Aroding in Palawan.

The Kulintang

The Kulintang is a set of 5 to 9 pieces of gongs aligned horizontally and arranged according to pitch that varies in size and sound. It is played with two light sticks they were traditionally made with bronze but since the Second World War, it has been replaced with brass. It is mostly used by the Tausug, Maranao, and Maguindanao for entertainment during festivals, healing ceremonies, and weddings.

The Kudyapi

The kudyapi or kutiyapi is a two-stringed wooden lute approximately 4 to 6 feet long. The strings are made of horse hair, abaca fibers and recently wire. It is native to the Lumads in Mindanao. It is made out of a single piece of wood and used by Manobo, T’boli, Maguindanao, and Maranao. Traditionally this instrument is played by men while singing love songs. A female version is called a Korlong.

The Tongali

The tongali is a nose flute that is known by many names, especially in the Northern areas. They include Ungiung by Ifugao, Kaleleng by Bontoc, Basli by Kapampangans, and Tolati or Lantuy by the Bisayans. It has 3 to 4 holes for the fingers to play and one hole in the back where the air is forced through the left or right nostril. It is usually played during special meals, the planting season, festivals, celebrations or in courtship.

There are many more to the list that we will continue to discuss in the coming month’s blog. Keep reading to rewind the musical journey of our country. Do check out these instruments at the popular online music store in the Philippines.

To Be Continued….

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