Nicanor Abelardo

Nicanor Abelardo Sheet Music

  • Born: 7th February 1893
  • Died: 21st March 1934
  • Birthplace: San Miguel de Mayumo, Bulacan, Philippines

Nicanor Sta. Ana Abelardo was a Filipino composer known for his Kundiman songs, especially before the Second World War. By 1924, following a teacher’s certificate in science and composition received in 1921, he was appointed head of the composition department at the Conservatory. Years later, he ran a boarding school for young musicians, and among his students were National Artist Antonino Buenaventura, Alfredo Lozano and Lucino Sacramento. In the field of composition he is known for his redefinition of the kundiman, bringing the genre to art-song status. Among his works were "Nasaan Ka Irog," "Magbalik Ka Hirang," and "Himutok." He died in 1934 at the age of 41, leaving a collection of more than 140 works.

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