The term rondalla refers to the native string ensemble of the Philippines, and it consists of plectrum instruments such as the bandurria, laud, octavina, mandola, guitarra, and bajo de uñas (supplanted today by the regular double bass). Wherever the University of the Philippines Alumni & Friends Rondalla performs, whether a formal or an informal affair, the music produced by the UPAFR never fails to evoke pride in and a yearning for their homeland among the Filipinos and an awesome sense of love and appreciation for our musical heritage by non-Filipinos who are not familiar with our indigenous instruments. For what instruments could produce such beautiful sounds that resemble the soothing strains of music emanating from a cross between a violin and a mandolin, the non-Filipinos asks.
It is heartening that Filipino-Americans are rediscovering their Filipino heritage, and dedicated people in both coasts, like the UPAFR, are committed to preserving the rondalla as an integral part of this legacy.
Rondalla Renditions
Philippine Music Genres
Upcoming Events
| Date, Time | Event | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| October 16 6:00-8:00 PM |
Filipino American History Month Celebration | Lowery Plaza (40th St and Queens Blvd) |
| October 18 2:00 PM |
Rondalla Strings: Music, Song, and Dance | New Brunswick Free Public Library 60 Livingston Avenue New Brunswick, NJ 08901 |
| October 25 11:00 AM |
Multicultural Day presented by Piscataway Civil Rights Advisory Commission | Riverside Park 430 River Road Piscataway, NJ 08854 |
| November 23 2:00 PM |
Rondalla Strings: Music, Song, and Dance Registration opens October 23rd. |
John F Kennedy Library 500 Hoes Lane Piscataway, NJ 08854 |