Leading Filipino Composers Born in 1880–1900

• • A characteristically impressionist work is his piano work Malikmata (Transfiguration).
  • He is best known for his poignantly romantic serenade for violin and piano Hatinggabi.
  • He received the National Artist for Music award in 1973. He passed away on January 29, 1980.


  Antonio Molina
• • He was known as the "Father of the Kundiman" and belongs to the "Triumvirate of Filipino Composers."
  • Santiago's music was Romantic in style, incorporating Western forms and techniques with folk materials.


  Francisco Santiago (1899–1947)
• Works of Francisco Santiago

  • Ano Kaya Ang Kapalaran
  • Madaling Araw
  • Pakiusap
• • He studied music at the Chicago Music College and was influenced by the musical styles of Schoenberg, Hindemith, and Stravinsky.
  • He incorporated Philippine folk elements in his compositions with Western forms and harmony.

  Nicanor Abelardo (1893-1934)
• Works of Nicanor Abelardo

  • Mutya ng Pasig
  • Nasaan Ka Irog
  • Cavatina for Violoncello
  • Magbalik Ka Hirang
• In Nicanor Abelardo's "Mutya ng Pasig", the mutya speaks, in the light of the full moon, lamenting her kingdom and love that was lost, symbolizing the freedom lost by the country to the Americans.
• • Born on May 15, 1909 in Singalong, Manila
  • His mother ignited his interest in music.
  • Organist of Pasay Catholic Church at the age of 8
  • He composed a military march titled Salute at the age of 13.
  • He can create a piano composition suggested by the telephone number, a car plate, or a name.


  Rodolfo Cornejo
• • Born on December 26, 1894 in Quiapo, Manila
  • His first creation was the "Matinal".
  • First composer who was asked to perform his composition in Malacañang Palace
  • Known as the "Claude Debussy of the Philippines" and the "Dean of Filipino Composers”
  • The first National Artist for Music, is considered one of the "Triumvirate of Filipino Composers”


  Antonio Molina
• Musical tones