Through strings and their sounds, Rondalla celebrates Filipino identity

Starting as young as eight years old, this group of Filipino students has come to appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of the rondalla—a traditional string ensemble they proudly play to promote Filipino heritage in performances abroad.

Showing the Filipino string instruments, the De La Salle Zobel Rondalla from the Philippines brings its sounds and music to the 33rd Australian International Music Festival this July. Credit: DLSZ Rondalla (Facebook)

Key Points

• Originating from Spain, the rondalla is a traditional Filipino ensemble composed of stringed instruments, widely used in folk and cultural performances.
• With instruments like the bandurria, octavina, laud, guitar, bass, and percussion, the ensemble produces a distinctively Filipino sound when played together.
• For the De La Salle Zobel Rondalla, their journey goes beyond performances; it’s about the friendships formed within the group and their shared commitment to promoting Filipino music.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Through strings and their sounds, Rondalla celebrates Filipino identity

SBS Filipino

12:23Filipino

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