Articles
Essays and notes on the Philippine guitar tradition.
Kinablit: The Rich Fingerstyle Guitar Tradition of the Cebuano-Speaking Philippines
Kinablit, from the Cebuano word "kablit" (to pluck), is a vibrant fingerstyle guitar tradition from the Visayas and Mindanao. This dynamic technique weaves intricate rhythms, melodies, and basslines into a polyphonic soundscape, often used …
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Strumming Connections: Andrew Wee’s Journey with Classical Guitar in Singapore and the Philippines
This blog chronicles the inspiring journey of a Singaporean classical guitarist and teacher, blending Filipino cultural influences through his music and heritage, with early inspiration from family and church music, extensive training under…
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Strings of the Past: The Rise of the 5-String Guitar in Early Philippine Music
Discover how the 5-string guitar shaped early Philippine music, from Spanish colonial baroque guitars to the golden age of radio featuring forgotten masters like Mario Gandionco.
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Who Really Started the Philippine Guitar Industry—Cebu or Pampanga?
An intriguing look at the friendly debate between Cebu and Pampanga over who really started the Philippine guitar industry, exploring how both regions developed rich lutherie traditions that continue to define Filipino musical heritage.
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