Music in the Philippines

One of the things I loved most about being in New Caledonia when I was there for my mission was the kind of music that they listened to. They listened to American music for sure, but I love listening to their native style of music that they had. It was kind of reggae like in style but the words were in French and I really liked it.

I have enjoyed listening to a few songs from the Philippines in culture class so far. The song about Manila was great as well as the song by “Hey Joe.” I think it definitely has a different taste and flavor from songs in the U.S.

First of all, it is interesting how the language that is used to sing is usually “Taglish” a mix of Tagalog and English. I also think that songs in general are slower and seem more laid back than a lot of the songs that we dance to in the U.S.

I’m not familiar at all with different instruments in the Philippines but if I had to guess I would say that the instruments used in the music is mostly like guitar and ukulele type ones with maybe some percussion instruments. I know that Spain and Spanish has a big influence on colonizing the Philippines so part of me wonders if some of that influence is found in the music as well.

If the Philippines is anything like New Caledonia there is an island mentality that may reign there, so I think that that could potentially come across in the music as well. The songs could sound more laid back and peaceful, rather than fast and upbeat.

I am excited to go and share music but also to have music shared with me as I learn more about music in the Philippines and I’m sure I will come home with songs that I will want to listen to again.