Konsiyerto ng Kundiman 2018

Kundiman, from the words kung hindi man (meaning “if not, then…”), is the traditional Filipino love music with lyrics that often depict unfortunate affairs or sorrow brought by love. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is holding a Konsiyerto ng Kundiman (Concert of Kundiman) this July 31, 2018, at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) as the finals of the Kundiman Contest 2018.

The Filipino music genre Kundiman used to be classified as folk love songs until the 20th century, when composers like Bonifacio Abdon, Francisco Santiago, and Juan Balita reintroduced the genre to also include love for the country. For a few examples of kundiman music, listen to “Nasaan ka Irog?” by Nicanor Abelardo or “Bayan Ko” by Constancio de Guzman.

NCCA opened the Timpalak Kundiman 2018 (Kundiman Contest) early this year with an aim to bring consciousness to the current generation about the contemporary kundiman, presenting it as an art rather than just a symbol of culture. The contest will also promote kundiman as a consolidation of the cultural and artistic skills that are deeply rooted in the Filipino language and traditions.

From fifteen entries from Filipino composers and musicians all over the Philippines, only eight were chosen for the finals. The final eight kundiman pieces were chosen for their lyrics that best reflect the modern Filipino experience. These will be the eight pieces to be performed at the Konsiyerto ng Kundiman for the final judging. The winners will be announced on the same night.

Performing with them will be Manila Symphonic Junior Orchestra and the Mabuhay Singers for the opening and intermission numbers. The grand winner will receive a cash prize of Php 250,000 and NCCA will be allowed to use the kundiman on public events and other promotions.

The Filipino youth all know hugot which, in modern parlance, are usually words or phrases with potentially deep sentimental or emotional undertones. However, the original hugot started in the form of a kundiman. Come to celebrate love and even love lost at the Konsiyerto ng Kundiman this July 31, 2018, at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (Little Theater), CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay.

Details:

What: Konsiyerto ng Kundiman
When: July 31, 2018; 3 pm to 5 pm
Where: Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino (Little Theater), CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila
Ticket Information: Open to Public. RSVP to Ms. Vanessa Nicolas 0918-527-2198
Website: ncca.gov.ph