Introduction To Philippine Folk Dances
Introduction To Philippine Folk Dances
Introduction To Philippine Folk Dances
Countries all over the world have their own culture that is made more
colorful, beautiful, and vibrant through their folk dances that reflect who they
are. In the East, the Chinese have their symbolic Dragon Dance, while the
Japanese have the ancestral dance Bon Odori. In the West, the Americans have
their Square Dance. The Philippines, known as the “The Pearl of the Orient,”
has variety of Filipino folk dances as well – from the authentic rituals of the
Cordilleras to the Spanish-influence Maria Clara and the Muslim dances.
Folk Dances – refer to dances that share some or all of the following
attributes:
There are a lot of modern dances, such as hip hop, that evolve
spontaneously; but the term “folk dance” is generally not applied to them. Rather,
the term “street dance” or “vernacular dance” is used.
Hence, the term “folk dance” is reserved for dances which are to a
significant degree, bound by tradition, and originated in the times when the
distinction existed between the dance of “common folk” and the dances of the
“high society”.
Folk dances have been increasing its popularity. Our own native folk dances
earned world prestige when Filipino dance troupes toured abroad. The dances
have delighted and entertained people from all walks of life. As a form of
recreation, folk dances help promote national goodwill by depicting the habits and
customs of Filipino people all over the world.
The original and foremost dance troupe that was organized by Mrs.
Tolentino was the University of the Philippines Folk Song and Dance Troupe.
This group of dancers and singers toured the towns and provinces around Manila to
dance and sing for the people. Other dance groups were also organized later like
the Filipiniana, Barangayanan, Bayanihan, and Filipinescas. These groups have
gone outside the country dancing their way to win the love, admiration, and
appreciation of our foreign friends.
Frequently, these dances require skills and character that depict the
kind of work they are involved in. it is the lowlanders’ way to ease their
burden – through fun and artistic movements.
5. Courtship Dance – these are dances depicting love making or has love
themes. Example: Helehele Bago Quire, Aringguinding-guinding and
Maramion
8. War Dances – these dances are intended to show imaginary combat or duel
with the use of fighting equipment like the bolo, kris, or spear. These are
evident in Sagayan and Inabaknon dances.
9. Comic Dances – these are dances with funny and humorous movements
mainly intended for entertainment. Kinoton and Pinuhag are examples of
comic dances.
10.Game Dances – these are dances that have some play elements for
recreational purposes. Example: Pabo, Sineñalan and Lubi-lubi.
ETHNIC DANCES
Ethnic dances in the Philippines are classified into two major categories:
There are two types of body movements: axial movement and locomotor
movement.
Formation
Before teaching the native dance steps, the fundamental position of the arms
and legs should be learned first.
The Importance of Philippine Folk Dance
1. Fitness – dancing is one of the most versatile and satisfying activities one
can participate in as a form expression, recreation, or exercise to develop
fitness.
2. Joy and Satisfaction – dancing improves the physical well-being of a person
who participate in a dancing activity. One can find satisfaction as he
complete the phasing of the dance.
3. Grace and Coordination – dancing improves response to rhythmic patterns.
Constant participation in a dance will improve one’s neuro-muscular
coordination and will help one’s acquisition of grace with precision.
4. Self-Expression – dancing develops poise and good posture. One can
communicate socially, emotionally, and intellectually through the physical
expression with grace and poise.
QUIZ #1:
Instructions: Write in the yellow pad paper the questions and your correct answer.