The FYP Cultural Ambassadors are proud to host Music Directors Matthew Espina Harris and Major Julian of Parangal Dance Company for a beginner-friendly introduction to Kulintang music rooted in Maguindanaon and Tausug gong traditions. This hands-on workshop will cover foundational melodies and rhythms used in folk dance, while offering space to connect with the cultural traditions of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago.
Five instruments complete a Maguindanaon kulintang ensemble. The melodic instrument at the center of an ensemble is called the Kulintang. The accompanying instruments are the Agung, Babendil, Dabakan, and Gandingan.
This is a free event with a suggested donation of $10, and is open to anyone interested. No music or dance experience necessary. Please RSVP as space is limited.
This event is funded in part by the City of Houston throughHouston Arts Alliance.
Workshop dates and times:
- Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 2:30-4:30pm
- Sunday, May 3, 2026 from 2:30-4:30pm
Venue:
Garage 713 Studio
5708 N Shepherd Dr Ste C-5, Houston, TX 77091
This event is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.
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Major Julian
Major Julian serves as Parangal’s Director of Technology and Co-Music Director, a dual role that mirrors his passion for precision and cultural storytelling. By day, he is a Business Systems Support Analyst in the pharmaceutical industry; by night, he applies that technical expertise to the preservation of Philippine heritage. Since joining the ensemble, Major has been a cornerstone of the company’s sustainability, notably securing its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2013 and establishing its digital home at Parangal.org.
Matt Espinosa
Matthew Espina Harris is a musician and cultural researcher based in Oakland. He got his start in Philippine dance and music through Pilipino Culture Night at UC Davis, where he fell in love with Kulintang and Rondalla. While attending university, Matthew established one of the only student-run, traditionally based Kulintang ensembles in the United States.In 2022, Matthew formally joined the artistic team of Parangal Dance Company, and now works as Co-Director of Music to strengthen the company’s gong and percussion repertoire.
ABOUT PARANGAL DANCE COMPANY:
Parangal Aspires to Inspire! They are a non-profit, Filipino Folk Dance & Music Company based in the unceded Ramaytush Ohlone Territory also known San Francisco in California, USA.
Parangal’s mission is to give tribute to Philippine heritage by preserving and promoting ethnic attire, music, and dance through research, workshops, and performances. They aim to serve as a bridge, inspiring and connecting Filipinos in diaspora to their roots to give them a sense of pride and identity, while educating diverse communities to foster awareness and appreciation of Philippine culture.
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