SCRAP BOOK

SARSUWELA
 Severino Reyes

Severino Reyes (1861–1942) was a prominent Filipino playwright,

novelist, and poet. He is often referred to as the "Father of the
Tagalog Zarzuela" for his significant contributions to Philippine
theater. Born in Santa Cruz, Manila, during the late 19th century,
Reyes initially pursued a career in law but eventually found his
passion in writing and theater. Reyes' most notable works
include "Walang Sugat" ("No Wound"), which is considered one
of the greatest Filipino plays of all time. It addresses themes of
love, patriotism, and the struggle for freedom during the
Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. "Walang
Sugat" was groundbreaking for its use of Tagalog, the national
language of the Philippines, in theatrical performances, helping
to promote the language and foster a sense of national identity.
Aside from his literary contributions, Reyes was also involved in
journalism and activism, advocating for social reform and
Filipino cultural pride. His legacy continues to influence Filipino
literature and theater, inspiring generations of writers and
artists to explore themes of national identity, social justice, and
cultural heritage.
 His Works;

"Walang Sugat" ("No Wound") is a timeless

masterpiece written by Severino Reyes, widely regarded
as one of the most significant works in Philippine
literature and theater. Set against the backdrop of the
Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule, the
play intricately weaves together themes of love,
patriotism, and the harsh realities of war. Through
compelling characters and poignant dialogue, Reyes
crafts a narrative that explores the human cost of
oppression and the indomitable spirit of the Filipino
people. At its core, "Walang Sugat" is a powerful
portrayal of resilience and hope in the face of adversity,
resonating with audiences both past and present as a
testament to the enduring struggle for freedom and
dignity.
 Patricio Geronimo
Mariano

Patricio Geronimo Mariano (1891–1960) was a notable Filipino

composer, conductor, and music educator, revered for his
profound contributions to Philippine music during the early to
mid-20th century. Born in Santa Cruz, Manila, Mariano
demonstrated his musical talent from a young age, eventually
establishing himself as a leading figure in the Filipino music
scene. He is best known for his efforts in popularizing Filipino
folk music and incorporating it into orchestral compositions,
thereby enriching the cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Mariano's compositions, ranging from symphonic works to
choral pieces, reflect a deep appreciation for indigenous
melodies and rhythms, often evoking themes of love, patriotism,
and social consciousness. As a conductor and music educator,
Mariano played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of
Filipino musicians, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to
inspire and resonate with audiences both in the Philippines and
beyond.
 His Works;

"Ang mga Anak Dalita" ("The Children of the Slums")

is a novel written by Patricio Mariano, a Filipino
author, and composer. First published in 1926, this
literary work provides a poignant depiction of the
struggles and hardships faced by the marginalized
members of society, particularly those living in the
impoverished areas of Manila during the early 20th
century. Through vivid storytelling and rich character
development, Mariano sheds light on the social
injustices, economic disparities, and human resilience
amidst adversity. "Ang mga Anak Dalita" remains a
significant piece of Filipino literature, offering valuable
insights into the complexities of urban life and the
enduring spirit of the Filipino people.
 Levi Celerio

Levi Celerio (1910–2002) was a highly esteemed Filipino

composer, lyricist, and National Artist for Music and Literature.
Renowned for his prolific contributions to Philippine music,
Celerio was a master of various musical genres, including folk,
classical, and popular music. He was particularly famous for his
skill in playing the leaf as a musical instrument, a talent that
earned him international recognition and a place in the
Guinness World Records as the only leaf player in the world.
Celerio composed over 4,000 songs in his lifetime, many of
which became enduring classics in Philippine music. His
compositions covered a wide range of themes, from love and
patriotism to social issues and everyday life. Some of his most
famous compositions include "Sa Ugoy ng Duyan," "Waray-
Waray," and "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit" (known internationally as
"Christmas in Our Hearts"). Beyond his musical prowess, Celerio
was also a talented lyricist, collaborating with numerous Filipino
composers to create timeless songs. His lyrical mastery and
ability to capture the essence of Filipino culture and emotions
have left an indelible mark on Philippine music and continue to
inspire generations of musicians and songwriters.
 His Works;

"Maliwag na Buwan" is a Filipino song composed by

Levi Celerio. The title translates to "Bright Moon" in
English. It is a love song that often evokes feelings of
nostalgia and romance. Celerio's compositions,
including "Maliwag na Buwan," are cherished for their
melodic beauty and emotional depth, making them
beloved classics in Philippine music. The song's
evocative lyrics and timeless melody have resonated
with audiences for generations, cementing its place in
the rich tapestry of Filipino musical heritage.
 Leon Ignacio

Leon Ignacio was a Filipino composer and musician known

for his contributions to Philippine music, particularly in
the genres of zarzuela and popular songs for movies. He
learned to play the violin at a young age and became a
regular violinist in Juan Molina's orchestra by the age of
14. Ignacio also learned to play the piano and later started
composing music for zarzuela productions. His talents
extended to composing songs for movies, which
significantly contributed to the development of Filipino
popular music. Ignacio's work as a composer and musical
director earned him respect and recognition in the
Philippine music industry, leaving a lasting legacy in the
country's musical landscape.
 His Works;

"Dalagang Bukid" is a classic Filipino zarzuela composed by

Leon Ignacio with libretto by Hermogenes Ilagan. The title
translates to "Country Maiden" in English. Premiering in the
early 20th century, it quickly became one of the most popular
and enduring zarzuelas in Philippine theater history.The story
of "Dalagang Bukid" revolves around the romantic tale of
rural love, depicting the life of a simple country maiden named
Cecilia. Set in a rural village, the zarzuela explores themes of
love, betrayal, and societal norms, with Cecilia caught in the
midst of various romantic entanglements. The zarzuela's
catchy tunes, lively dances, and heartfelt performances have
captivated audiences for generations. Dalagang Bukid" is
celebrated for its cultural significance, capturing the essence of
Filipino rural life and the struggles of the common people. It
has been staged numerous times over the years and remains a
beloved classic in Philippine theater, showcasing the enduring
appeal of zarzuela as a form of entertainment deeply rooted in
Filipino culture.