'We feel whole in spirit when we play’: Fil‑Aussie couple in Armidale proudly share Filipino folk music

David and Jeanette Macasieb have loved singing and playing musical instruments since they were young. When they migrated to Australia, they gave their passion for music deeper meaning by sharing and celebrating Filipino culture through their performances.

Inspired to share Filipino culture, [L-R] David (guitar) and Jeanette Macasieb (Banduría) performed Filipino folk music with [2nd photo R]Anne O’Brian (Octavina) at multicultural events in Tamworth, including Philippine Independence celebrations in New England region, New South Wales. Credit: Jeanette Macasieb

Key Points

• The Macasiebs worked in Singapore for more than a decade before migrating to Australia. Jeanette hails from Pozorrubio in Pangasinan, while David comes from Dagupan City.
• The couple is eager to teach musical instruments, as they dream of forming a musical ensemble in their community in the New England region, particularly in Armidale and Tamworth.
• Some of the songs they perform at multicultural events include Manang Biday, Sitsiritsit, Leron Leron Sinta, Lakay Labi, and Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal. They say that music is more than a passion — it is a way to preserve their identity, strengthen their marriage, connect with their community, and share Filipino culture with future generations.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

'We feel whole in spirit when we play’: Fil‑Aussie couple in Armidale proudly share Filipino folk music

SBS Filipino

13:57Filipino

[L-R] Jeanette Macasieb with Anne O’Brian and her mother during one of their performances in Tamworth, NSW. Credit: Jeanette Macasieb/FB

[L-R] David and Jeanette Macasieb with MP Kevin Anderson in Tamworth, NSW. Credit: Jeanette Macasieb/FB

Playing Filipino music makes us feel whole. When the crowd sings along to familiar folk songs, it brings back memories of home and reminds us why sharing our culture through music is so meaningful.

David and Jeanette Macasieb, musicians from Armidale, NSW

According to David and Jeanette Macasieb, singing and practicing musical instruments serve as their bonding time. Because they are both musically inclined, they truly enjoy every moment they spend together. Credit: Jeanette Macasieb/FB

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