Zamboanga City Local Customs

Close up of instruments.

by bike_packer

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Close up of instruments.
by bike_packer
String Trio
by bike_packer

Reviews from VirtualTourist Members

Generally Castillian

by mhiel

The Spanish regime had a considerable influence on the way of life of Zamboangueños, evidenced by the native Chabacano dialect which is a creole of the Spanish language. The Spanish will do well in this city! But, the culture blends well with both Islamic and Western influences really.

String Trio Serenade

by bike_packer

While taking a walk by the city street of Zamboanga City, I encountered this trio serenading in front of a house playing their improvised musical instruments to my amazement. Yes, they know their music. It's called "oido" playing.Two of the instruments are crude imitation of the play-it-standing big bass violin - even though this does not play bass. The sound chamber is made of a paint thinner can - I should know, the markings are still there. There are no frets, just the left fingers holding the strings at a desired string's length while the right hand does the bow to-and-fro. And with the third instrument, a ukelele - hey, it's Sweet Music to the ears!They did their thing house-to-house for the day which I believe it goes with the Filipino tradition of serenading for money on Christmas time and on town fiestas. Not bad to make money.