Indigenous songs, rhymes and chants in the life cycle of the I-Sagada

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to contribute to the arcade materials on indigenous culture of the Igorot particularly that of the I-Sagada. Its aim was primarily to collect indigenous songs, rhymes and chants in the life cycle of the ISagada; that of childhood, adolescence, marriage and death. It is the belief of the researcher, that if we are to appreciate our heritage, it is necessary that we have a distinct identity as a cultural being. The songs, rhymes and chants form part of such an identity. In order to come up with enough indigenous songs, rhymes and chants, the researcher made use of the third year literature class of Saint Mary’s School, school year 1988-1989. They had a vast collection of Igorot songs, rhymes and chants from their grandparents who are still living. The authenticity of the songs, rhymes and chants were verified by the researcher through daily interactions with the people of Sagada, she being a resident of the place. Textual translations into English was done by the researcher in consultation with some of her colleagues at Saint Mary’s School where she teaches. The notations of the songs was done by a local resident of Sagada who herself knows the songs, rhymes and chants and has also undergone formal schooling in music.