Lecture 17
Philippine Folk Music
Songs and instruments of home
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson, learners will be able to: (1) identify the main instrument groups in Philippine folk music; (2) sing one folk song with correct pronunciation and phrasing; (3) explain the role of music in a Philippine community celebration.
Lesson Discussion
Philippine folk music is a map of the archipelago: gong ensembles in the south, string bands in the lowlands, and songs that mark every stage of life. Learners listen to two contrasting traditions, then learn a folk song together with attention to language and phrasing. We discuss where these songs are still sung today and why they matter to young Filipinos. The lesson ends with learners sharing a song they know from home.
Instructional Materials
Slide deck · Recorded examples from two traditions · Folk song lyric sheet with translation · Map of the Philippines · Student sharing activity