Traditional sound of rondalla: A heritage of Filipino music

The Rondalla is a traditional Filipino ensemble featuring a distinctive blend of string instruments, including the banduria, octavina, laud, guitar, string bass, and percussion. Credit: DLSZ Rondalla/Philip Dagang

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Traditional Filipino rondalla music has deep historical roots. Although it originated from Spain and was brought to the Philippines in the mid-1500s, the art form evolved over time to reflect a distinctly Filipino sound and identity. Both its use and instruments were adapted, giving rise to native versions such as the bandurria, laud, octavina, and others.

Key Points

The rondalla refers to a group of stringed instruments traditional to the Philippines, such as the bandurria, octavina, laud, guitar, and double bass.
The De La Salle Zobel Rondalla from Muntinlupa is one of the groups in the Philippines that continues to promote and preserve rondalla music. They participate in international competitions, proudly showcasing the unique sound of the Filipino rondalla.
In Australia, groups like the Darwin Rondalla from the Northern Territory and Rondanihan from Canberra, ACT, are actively preserving and cultivating the art of rondalla music.

Traveling to various parts of the Philippines and abroad, the De La Salle Zobel (DLSZ) Rondalla proudly showcases the distinct sound of the rondalla in every performance and competition they join.

“We are able to promote our culture and music, allowing people to understand where our sound comes from and how unique it is. Many are often surprised, as they’re more familiar with orchestras or bands — our rondalla stands out because we use traditional string instruments,” emphasises Lyon Libunao, president of the DLSZ Rondalla, which won a Gold Award at the 33rd Australian International Music Festival held in July 2025.

Members of the DLSU Rondalla from the Philippines showcase the indigenous and tradition Filipino sound in their international performances. Credit: Supplied by Philip Dagang

Listening to the music of the rondalla ignites one's love for the homeland. Embracing and learning more about the sound of the rondalla makes you more Filipino.
Lyon Libunao, DLSZ Rondalla President

The DLSZ Rondalla visited SBS Studios in Artarmon, NSW, in mid-2025, where they performed several pieces from their OPM medley repertoire. Credit: SBS Filipino