Contemporary Music in the Philippines

Definition

• Contemporary music in the Philippines involves compositions influenced by 20th-century Western art music and modern entertainment trends.
• According to Ramon Santos, it includes idioms from Impressionism, Expressionism, Neoclassicism, Avant-Garde, and New Music.

Historical Influence

• Colonization by Spain and America introduced Western compositional techniques to Filipino music.
• Filipino composers retained traditional elements, forming the foundation of modern Philippine music.

Notable Composers and Their Contributions

Francisco Buencamino Sr. (1883-1952)

• Born in Bulacan to a musically inclined family.
• Founded the Centro Escolar de Señoritas Conservatory of Music and Buen Camino Music Academy.
• Known for compositions like "Harana," "Pandango ni Neneng," and "Mayon Fantasia de Concierto."
• Posthumously honored as an Outstanding Composer.

Francisco Santiago (1889-1947)

• Known as the "Father of the Kundiman."
• Studied at the American Conservatory of Music.
• Composed "Pakiusap," "Madaling Araw," and "Anak Dalita."
• Directed the UP Conservatory of Music.

Nicanor Abelardo (1893-1934)

• Part of the "Triumvirate of Filipino Composers."
• Combined European romanticism with dramaticism.
• Known works: "Mutya ng Pasig," "Cinderella Overture."

Antonio J. Molina (1894-1980)

• First National Artist for Music.
• Influenced by romantic and impressionist styles.
• Composed "Malikmata" and "Hating Gabi."

Hilarion Rubio (1902-1985)

• Composer, conductor, clarinetist.
• Conducted military and civilian bands.
• Composed "Florante at Laura Overture" and "Halik."

Colonel Antonio Buenaventura (1904-1996)

• Developed Philippine military bands.
• Composed with extensive folk material usage.
• Known for "Pandango sa Ilaw."

Rodolfo Cornejo (1909-1991)

• Started music at age 6, wrote first composition at 10.
• Composed "Glissando Waltz" and "Salute."
• Known for improvisations based on people's names.

Felipe Padilla De Leon Sr. (1912-1992)

• Known for expressing cultural identity through music.
• Composed operas "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo."

Lucio San Pedro (1913-2002)

• Romantic nationalist.
• Known for "Sa Ugoy ng Duyan" and "Lahing Kayumanggi."

Rosendo Santos Jr. (1922-1994)

• Composed more than 1,000 works.
• Known for "Melinda's Masquerade."

Ryan Cayabyab (b. 1954)

• Contemporary composer with classical pieces.
• Known for "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika" and "Alicaboc."

Conclusion

• Western techniques are evident in Philippine music due to colonization.
• Filipino composers maintain traditional elements in their works.
• These foundations form the basis of current Philippine music.
• The lesson aims to inspire and educate about the rich history and contributions of local artists.