Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1893 in San Miguel, Bulacan, Philippines

Death

:

1934

 

Nicanor Abelardo was a renowned Filipino composer who was born on February 7, 1893, in San Miguel, Bulacan, Philippines. He was the son of Valentin Abelardo, a church musician, and Placida Santa Ana, a teacher. Abelardo grew up in a family of musicians, and his father was his first music teacher. He learned to play the piano, violin, and banduria at a young age. Abelardo's musical talent was evident from a young age, and he began composing music when he was just 13 years old. He studied at the University of the Philippines Conservatory of Music, where he was mentored by the renowned composer Francisco Santiago. Abelardo's early compositions were influenced by European classical music, but he later incorporated Filipino folk music into his works. One of Abelardo's most famous compositions is "Nasaan Ka Irog," which is a love song that has become a classic in Filipino music. The song was written in 1928 and has been covered by many Filipino artists over the years. Another popular composition by Abelardo is "Mutya ng Pasig," which is a tribute to the Pasig River, a famous landmark in Manila. Abelardo's music was not only popular in the Philippines but also gained recognition internationally. In 1924, he won first prize in a composition contest held in the United States for his piece "Filipinas." The piece was later performed by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Abelardo's compositions were not limited to classical music. He also wrote music for films and theater productions. One of his most famous works for the theater is the music for the play "Walang Sugat," which was written by Severino Reyes. The play is a love story set during the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. Abelardo's music was not only beautiful but also reflected the struggles and triumphs of the Filipino people. He composed music that celebrated the country's culture and history, and his works continue to be an important part of Filipino music today. Sadly, Abelardo's life was cut short when he died on March 21, 1934, at the young age of 41. However, his legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and move people to this day.

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