Finding authentic folk songs can be difficult. Sometimes anthologies don’t tell you if lyrics have been changed or verses have been omitted, and sometimes you can’t find if it is authentic online? These are three books of authentic Filipino folk songs for you to add to your collection. (Full disclosure: some affiliate links but it won’t change your price. No pressure!) Also, for this particular post, the majority of the books are not listed on Amazon.

1. Antukin Philippine Folk Songs and Lullabyes 

Editor: Felicidad A Prudente, Ph.D.
Illustrations: Joanne de León
Buy the book:
Amazon
Arkipelago Books

This is a collection of 32 folk songs and lullabies from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Includes extra verses and translations.

2. Filipino Folk Songs

Collected by: Emilia S. Cavan 
Harmonized by: Francisco Santiago

Published in 1924, you can get a reprint of this book on Abe Books. This book may be also available in collections at a nearby university. This one will require a little work on your part, but if you are looking for old songs that may not be elsewhere, here are 30 songs with multiple verses. There are English translations included in the index. I bought my copy from Abe Books where it is printed on demand.

3. Songs of the Sun

Author: Tiffany Unarce Barry
Buy the book on Beatin’ Path Publications

This is the most recent publication. Includes pronunciation guides, recordings, and translations. This book includes audio recordings, visuals of the lyrics, videos, and additional music scores with online downloads that come with the book.

I hope this resource roundup has been helpful to add to your folk song collection! Thanks so much for celebrating Filipino American History Month with me. These resources are not just for FAHM or AAPIHM, but can be included in your songs all year round.

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