Module 1:music of Luzon (Highlands and Lowlands)
Module 1:music of Luzon (Highlands and Lowlands)
Module 1:music of Luzon (Highlands and Lowlands)
OVERVIEW
The lesson is an overview on the influences of colonization to the secular music of the
lowlands of Luzon. Through the lesson, one will discover how Spanish-influenced dance music and
art songs express their feelings towards each other and the environment, their history, and their
religious beliefs through voice and musical instruments. Different types of instrumental groups also
emerged during the American and Japanese Era. A group musical theater performance of the vocal
forms with an accompaniment on found objects and instruments of the rondalla will culminate the
educational experience.
SECULAR MUSIC
KUMINTANG
Originated from Balayan, Batangas • Nicanor Abelardo composed “Mutya ng Pasig”
in Kumintang tempo. • This sing expresses her feelings under the light of the moon. • She is
mourning the loss of her love, which symbolizes the country’s loss of freedom.
PANDANGGO
A dance form that can be found in the different islands of Luzon such as Batanes,
Ilocos, Tarlac and parts of Visayas. It is a courtship dance but it can also refer to a type of
song to entertain the farmers in the rice fields.
POLKA
Originated from Bohemian dance that became popular in Europe and America in the
early 19th century. The tempo is in quick duple meter while the melody is supported by the
chords/ harmonies in .Examples are: *Pamulinawen * Magtanim ay di Biro *Leron Leron
Sinta.
BALITAW
A dialogue or courtship song in triple meter, mostly in 2 and 3 part forms and
arranged counter melodies. • Some of the examples are: * Libis ng Nayon at Bakya mo
Neneng by Santiago Suarez * Arimunding Munding by Severino Reyes
KUNDIMAN
“Kung Hindi Man” • It conveys a selfless and spiritual attitude, intense love, longing,
caring, devotion and oneness. • Famous Kundiman composers: * Pilipinas kong Mahal by
Francisco Santiago * Nasaan ka Irog at Huling Awit by Nicanor Abelardo * Jocelynang
Baliwag by Bulacan Revolutionary Soldiers * Sa Sariling Bayan by V. Tolentino * Iyo Kailan
Pa Man by Angel Peña
Rondalla
A rondalla is an ensemble composed of stringed instruments played with pick or plectrum. The
rondalla originated in medieval Spain. The term rondalla was derived from word ronda, meaning
making round and alla means there to serenade.
You will usually find instruments such as baduria, laud, octavina, guitar and bajo de unas, or
double bass in a standard Filipino rondalla. These instruments have similarities in structure and are
palyed with a plectrum made out of turtle shell. Except for the guitar and bass guitar with six strings,
the rest are 14 stringed.
Social Function
Music for festivities and recreation
Work (planting and farming)
Courtship
Social Commentary and Patriotism