Philippines: Traditional Music Instruments

 

Philippines: Traditional Music Instruments

Mabuhay! Most of Filipino are basically music lovers. The development of music in the Philippines was generally influenced by the Spanish and the American communities who established the art forms that included dance and theater. But the indigenous instrument of the Philippines and the unique sounds play a very important role in the Phillipines Culture, also to the tribes or natives in the Philippines in their ceremonies, rituals and celebrations. 

Below are some of the musical instruments used by the tribes/ natives in the Philippines.

KUBING

A thin bamboo slit with a narrow vibrating tongue at the middle. It is used to play to communicate with the family members and loved ones, especially during courtship. The name differs in different regions such as Maranao 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.

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.

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.