Reviving Tradition: Komposo Festival 2024 Calls for Entries

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In the heart of Western Visayas, a cultural revival is underway as the Komposo Festival returns for its second year. With the theme "Ang Panulatan kag Paghidaet" ("Ang Panitikan at Kapayapaan"), this festival celebrates the rich tradition of the komposo, a narrative song unique to the region.

The komposo isn't just a song; it's a vessel of history, a storyteller of the people. Originating from Hiligaynon balladry, it weaves tales of historical events, local happenings, and human-interest stories. But it's more than just a recounting of events; it's a reflection of society, serving as political commentary, ideological propaganda, and a catalog of human experiences.

This year, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in collaboration with esteemed partners including the Hubon Manunulat, Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino (KWF), National Book Development Board (NBDB), and Keamanan Inc., invites all aspiring musicians and storytellers to breathe new life into this cherished tradition.

Participants are encouraged to push boundaries, exploring innovative melodies, arrangements, and accompaniments while staying true to the essence of the komposo. Whether you're a seasoned manugkomposo or a budding talent, this is your chance to make your mark on a treasured cultural heritage.

For those aged 25 and below, an online seminar-workshop on May 18, 2024, will provide invaluable insights into the art of composing and performing a komposo. Registration is open now at https://forms.gle/tDZgJMunRVZroin86.

Written entries, crafted in the melodious language of Hiligaynon, should be submitted by May 25, 2024. Ensure your compositions are original, a testament to your creativity and passion. Submissions can be made via email to hubonmanunulat@gmail.com or in person at the UPV Delgado Gate Guardhouse.

Judging will yield two winners (champion and runner-up) and three consolation prize winners for each category, who will then showcase their talents in a live performance contest on June 8, 2024, at SM City Iloilo.

For more information, eager participants can reach out to hubonmanunulat@gmail.com or connect with the Hubon Manunulat Facebook page.

For media inquiries and additional details, please contact Mr. Rene S. Napeñas, Head of the Public Affairs and Information Office, at pais@ncca.gov.ph or 0945 788 5698. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph and follow the Facebook page @NCCAOfficial to stay updated on all festival developments.

Experience the beauty of tradition and the power of creativity at Komposo Festival 2024. Let's keep the spirit of the komposo alive for generations to come.

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