He served as pianist-director of a USO concert unit that entertained the Allied Forces during World War II

Known as a nationalist composer who expressed the Philippines’ cultural identity through his compositions.

A product of both Romantic and Impressionist style, and came to be known as the “Father of Philippine Impressionist Music”

Father of the Kundiman and belongs to the Triumvirate of the Filipino Composers.

His name was closely identified with his works for the orchestra; as a conductor of opera, ballet, and dance recitals; and his music for movies.

A prolific composer whose works include concerti, sonatas, symphonies, symphonic poems, five operas in a Philippine dialect.

He was fascinated by the dynamics and harmonies of Debussy, but retained much of the Romantic style in his melody.

He restored the Philippine Constabulary Band in 1945, which is considered “one of the best military bands in the world”.

He incorporated Philippine folk elements in his compositions with Western forms and harmony.