Traditional and contemporary arts and artisans.
Guitarist Joaquin “Ding” Palomo (1923 – 1997) was a well-known and well-accomplished musician. Although he was known by his peers for playing rhythm guitar, he also played lead guitar. Palomo was an educator by profession, serving as principal of schools in Humåtak/Umatac and Dededu/Dededo. He woke up each morning at 5 a.m., however, to engage in what many called his passion – music.
Joaquin “Ding” Palomo Read Post »
Francisco Garrido Franquez (1921 – 2006), also known as “Frank” or “Ankie,” first picked up the harmonica at the age of 14 years old. In 1935 or 1936 there was a harmonica contest in the Guam schools for students throughout the island. Though Franquez did not care for the instrument at first, he continued to practice and eventually became an accomplished player.
Francisco G. Franquez Read Post »
Forrest Harris (1932 – ) first found his interest in music at nine years old while strumming a ukulele and playing a country song called “San Antonio Rose.” He would go on in his adult years to playing the mandolin, although he preferred the sound of the guitar.
Jazz is a unique style of modern music. Remnants of jazz can be heard in several different styles of music. The origin of jazz is said to date back to the African-American experience that emerged in the early 20th century. Since then, it has evolved into what many now consider to be one of the most popular and innovative styles of music.
Prior to 1966 the Guam Symphonic Wind Ensemble provided Guam with the only live symphonic music performances available. This ensemble was under the direction of David Williams, a music instructor at the then College of Guam.
Guam Symphony Society Read Post »
Contemporary CHamoru music is a ubiquitous part of life on Guam at the beginning of the 21st century and a key element of modern CHamoru culture. CHamoru music encompasses a wide variety of styles that reflect the wide variety of musical influences that have gained popularity through various historical eras.
When Lt. Commander William Sewell served as the third American Governor of Guam beginning in 1903, he reacted poorly to the Spanish flavor of the music on island.
Weaving continues to be an important practice on Guam. For thousands of years CHamorus have used Guam’s abundant foliage to produce useful and unique items.
Ancient CHamorus donned various styles of necklaces called ålas and salape that were made of seashells and tortoiseshell. As is common throughout much of Oceania, these forms of body adornment also served as currency and were often indicative of wealth and prestige.
Carving is a ancient tradition on Guam and in the Mariana Islands. The craft was used for thousands of years to create utilitarian items as well as body adornments.
