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The Kudyapi is a lute with eight frets and two strings – one is used for making the melody, and one is for the drone.


The instrument predominates among the northern groups in Mindanao – the Subanun, Maguindanaoan, Maranao, Higaonon, and Agusan Manobo.


Among the Maguindanaoan, the 2-string kudyapi is played as a solo instrument by musicians associated with the entourage of a Datu or Sultan.


The kudyapi is a respected instrument among the Maranao. The Maranao kudyapi is especially distinguished because of its ornate designs, and like Maranao wooden carvings, it can be identified as different from other Mindanao lutes.

 

The kudyapi is a boat lute stringed instrument of the Philippines. It is also known as kutiyapi, kusiyapi, kotapi, piyapi, faglung, fuglung, hegelung, kudlung, or kuglung depending on the place of origin and type of lute. (Nayong Pilipino Foundation)


Parts of Kudyapi

  1. Resonating Body – carved from one solid log of wood.
  2. Sound Holes – located on the back cover.
  3. Head or Body Extensions – decorations in additional carvings.
  4. Strings – can be made out of plant fibers.
  5. Tuning Pegs – round sticks with handles.
  6. Frets – strings are pressed down on the fret for different pitches.


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