Introduction

Growing up, music has always been a big part of my life. I remember being surrounded by Filipino music throughout my childhood. My grandmother always went the extra mile to teach me old folk songs like Rosas Pandan and Usahay and would tell me stories of how my grandfather would play these songs in his family band. My mother went on to teach me folk dances like Bulaklakan, Itik-Itik, and Tinikling as I got older.

As I started getting into playing instruments, I took the time to learn these folk tunes in particular because they mean a lot to me and my family. These are memories I have always been fond of and have held near and dear to my heart. I am so grateful for having the opportunity and honor to be taught these songs and be able to continue performing them, especially through Sayaw, the Filipino folk dance troupe at UW.