Ramon P. Santos on Philippine Music | Project Virkurso Lecture Series

Summary

This lecture by Ramon P. Santos explores the diverse landscape of Philippine music, defining its origins from pre-colonial Southeast Asian traditions and Euro-American influences. It delves into the evolution of classical, folk, and popular music genres, highlighting key composers, musical forms like the kundiman and zarzuela, and the emergence of contemporary styles such as Pinoy rock and hip-hop. The lecture emphasizes the blend of indigenous elements with Western forms, demonstrating how Filipino identity is woven into its rich and varied musical heritage.

Highlights

Defining Philippine Music: Origins and Influences00:00:16

The lecture begins by defining Philippine music as traditions existing before Spanish colonization and those that emerged after, influenced by Euro-American sources. This includes a blend of Southeast Asian oral traditions (bamboo and gong chime traditions) and European styles introduced during colonial periods.

Evolution of Classical and Folk Music (Pre-WWII)00:04:48

The early 20th century saw the rise of classical Filipino composers like Nicanor Abelardo and Francisco Santiago, who developed the 'kundiman' art song. Folk music and dances were also extensively researched and documented by figures like Francisca Reyes Aquino.

The Influence of Spanish Zarzuela and Opera00:07:53

Spanish dramatic forms like 'komedya' and 'zarzuela' were highly influential, especially among the elite and middle class. The 'Filipino zarzuela' emerged in 1894, fostering local playwrights and composers, though it later declined with the advent of cinema.

Post-WWII Modernization in Classical Music and Ethnomusicology00:10:59

After World War II, modern music concepts were introduced. Composers like Lucrecia Kasilag combined Western and Asian musical elements. Jose Maceda pioneered ethnomusicology in the Philippines, studying indigenous music and incorporating elements like drone and community into his avant-garde compositions.

Challenges and Promotion of Indigenous Music00:15:31

Despite efforts from government and private sectors, traditional forms like epic singing face challenges due to modernity and oral transmission. Entities like the National Commission for Culture and the Arts promote these arts through schools for living traditions and awards.

Musical Practices: Town Bands, Rondalla, and Choral Singing00:26:52

Folk traditions such as town bands, 'rondalla' (plucked string ensembles), and religious practices like the 'pasyon' continue to thrive. Choral singing, initially church-based, developed into a highly acclaimed art form, exemplified by groups like the UP Madrigal Singers.

The Rise of Popular Music and OPM00:36:17

The American colonial period introduced popular music and dances. After the war, Filipinos imitated American artists, but local composers eventually began writing in the vernacular, leading to the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) movement, with artists like Ryan Cayabyab and Jose Mari Chan.

Contemporary Filipino Popular Music: Pinoy Rock and Hip-Hop00:39:20

Pinoy rock emerged with bands like Juan de la Cruz, followed by 'Manila Sound' with groups like the Hotdogs. Hip-hop gained popularity in the 1980s and 90s, with Francis Magalona emphasizing Filipino identity and social issues. Independent music and musicals also became significant.

Defining Filipino Musical Identity00:48:32

The lecture concludes by posing the question of Filipino musical identity. It argues that all mentioned forms of sound expression, whether indigenous or Western-influenced, contribute to Filipino music. The ability to transform external influences with local sentiments defines their unique identity, emphasizing the importance of preserving non-Western traditions.