Lecture Notes: Philippine Opera and Western Classical Music

Introduction to Opera

• Opera Definition
  • Part of Western classical music.
  • Originated in Italy at the end of the 16th century.
  • Spread throughout Europe, flourishing in English, French, and Italian forms.
  • Combines text (libretto) and music in a dramatic presentation.
  • Utilizes elements like acting, scenery, costumes, and sometimes dance.
  • Performed in opera houses, cultural centers, or auditoriums.
  • Accompanied by orchestras or chamber ensembles.
  • Dialogues are sung (recitatives), not spoken.
  • Performances include an orchestra pit and stage for singers.

Opera in the Philippines

• Historical Development

  • Began in the mid-19th century.
  • Influenced by foreign performers and Spanish zarzuela.
  • Emphasizes themes like romance, deceit, murder, and human frailty.

• Local Theaters

  1. Teatro Zarrilla
     • Prominent theater in Manila.
     • Named after Spanish poet/playwright Jose Zarrilla.
  2. Metropolitan Theater
     • Historic Art Deco building in Manila.
     • Forefront of Art Deco in Philippine architecture.
  3. Variedades Theater
     • Known for entertaining less demanding audiences with diverse genres.
  4. Teatro de Tondo
     • Active before 1829.
     • Known for comedias or Moro-moro performances.
  5. Circo Teatro de Bilibid
     • Former bullring converted into a theater.
     • Known for its large seating capacity and lavish decor.

Notable Philippine Operas

1. Sandugong Panaginip
   • First Filipino opera with a Spanish libretto by Pedro Paterno.
   • Symbolizes acceptance of American rule.
   • First staged at Zarrilla Theater in 1902.
2. Le Congbini
   • Staged at the Metropolitan Theater in 1933.
   • Featured popular operatic divas.
3. La Loba Negra (The Black She-Wolf)
   • Based on history attributed to Father Jose Burgos.
   • Story of Governor General Francisco Bustamante's assassination and his wife's revenge.
4. Noli Me Tangere
   • Three-act opera by Felipe Padilla de Leon.
   • Based on Jose Rizal's novel depicting Spanish colonization.
5. El Filibusterismo
   • Composed by Felipe Padilla de Leon in 1970.
   • Sequel to Noli Me Tangere, addressing ongoing Filipino struggles.

Conclusion

• Video clips of Philippine operas are available for further exploration.
• Operas discussed reflect significant historical and cultural narratives in Philippine society.