Monday, November 2, 2009

Rondalla sa Bansalan


Bansalan is known for its talented people gifted with the capacity to play musical instruments. In the recently conducted Cooperative Month Culmination Program at the Provicial Capitol Gymnasium last October 30, 2009,selected cooperative members had shown how adept they are in rondalla . A rondalla is an ensemble of plectrum instruments, stringed instruments played with a plectrum or pick. It originated in Spain, but became one of the traditional forms of Philippine folk music after its introduction to the islands in the 19th century.

The Group was headed by Mr. Espiritu Gonzales and Mr. Loremer Carillo, both members of the Marber Irrigators Farmers Cooperative (MIFCO). It was supposed to be a contest among the municipalities in the Province of Davao del Sur, but other municipalities were not able to complete the minimum number of players. Besides, they were hesitant to compete knowing the fact that Rondalla players from Bansalan would garner the award because the latter won four successive Rondalla Competitions a couple of years ago @ Victoria Plaza Mall , Bajada Davao City.

The group will participate in the Regional level contest this coming December 04, 2009 at CAP auditorium on the occasion of the 6th Tapok –Tapok Sa Koop ug Barkadahan sa Pasko . They will compete with musicians from Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley and Davao City.

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1 comment:

Unknown said...

Rondalla sa Bansalan
When I saw the picture of our Bansalan Rondalla posted by Ranz I immediately recalled my high school musical reminiscence and inspired to write this paragraph. I would like to acknowledge two of my early mentors Mr. Loremer Carillo and Mr. Espiritu Gonsales for their humble dedication in promoting Rondalla Music in our town. One of my unforgettable and enjoyable activities as a kid 36 years ago was playing with them in Bansalan Parish Choir and Rondalla. These two gentleman are not only talented and lovers of music but generous and eager to share their portion in terms of talents and opportunities. It is good to see them continually and patiently leading the new generation in preserving our music heritage. Every good gift comes from God and it is given to us for a purpose. And also, many thanks to Sir Justin Carillo a fine and warm hearted Band and Music Instructor in Holy Cross High School during 70’s; he is the Brother of Mr. Loremer who taught me from music theory to tuning up and playing Rondalla instruments. We used Rondalla in worship as an accompaniment for the Church music. In social gatherings we rendered our talents upon request for birthdays, fiestas, weddings parties and other functions.
Now there would be possibilities to explore and make use of our music not only to enjoy it but that it becomes a medium for uplifting the lives of our kids to stay in the positive activities rather than staying on the streets. I would say that even now Rondalla Music is our asset and a part of our cultural heritage. Therefore we will preserve, promote and enhance this kind of music and encourage the young people to appreciate this musical art form by providing them the instruments and opportunities to develop their talents. Through internet we can communicate this cause to people around the world who has the heart to support our very own Rondalla. And if there are people who after reading this column want to make a difference please post your suggestions in this site. When we have more instruments in the music room opportunities is greater for our music lovers and youngsters to keep on going. One instrument donated to this group may change a life of a kid. Music is a God-given phenomenon let’s guide our children in exploring our musical art and enjoy it.
Edgardo Pesquera