Guide to the Kutiyapi

A photo of a Maguindanao kutiyapi with okkir motifs.

The kutiyapi, also known as kudyapi, is a two-stringed boat lute that originated in the Philippines. Some name variations also existdepending on what region it is used. In Maguindanao, this instrument was referred to as ‘kutiapi,’ while the Maranao called this ‘kotyapi.’ At the same time, the Subanon named it ‘kotapi.’ The … Read more

Guide to the Kubing

The kubing is a jaw harp idiophone that is notably used by several Muslim and non-muslim tribes in the Philippines and Indonesia. This instrument is known as one of the oldest instruments in the world. The kubing is made out of a thin bamboo strip or metal strip that is about two … Read more

Guide to Dabakan

The dabakan is a percussion instrument that originated in the Philippines. It is a single-headed drum that is usually played along with the other instruments in the kulintang ensemble. Interestingly, the dabakan is the only non-gong instrument among the five main instruments in the ensemble. According to history, the name dabakan originated … Read more

Guide to Babendil

Babandil or Babendil is a narrow-rimmed gong that is primarily used in the Maguindanao kulintang ensemble as a timekeeper. It has several names that vary depending on the region, such as babendir in Maguindanao, and Babndir for the Maranao people. For other Southern Philippine groups, the babendil is called bandil, babendil, babendil, … Read more

Guide to Agung

An Agung is a percussion instrument used by the ethnic groups in the Philippines. These ethnic groups, including the Maguindanao, Sama-Bajau, Maranao, and Tausug people,use the Agung as a support instrument for the kulintang ensemble, a row of small gongs that functionmelodically. The instrument Agung is a set of wide-rimmed gongs that … Read more