Impacts and benefits of the 1973 restoration of the Bamboo Organ in Las Pinas City

Abstract

Las Pinas City has been known for many tilings like salt beds, water lilies and Sarao jeepneys. But what Las Pinas is most proud of is the famous Bamboo Organ. Accounts and articles have been written about its history and prestige around the world. Being a resident of the once known cleanest and greenest city in Manila, the writer's realization on the importance of a cultural landmark found in her own hometown that has survived the test of time and calamities led her to conduct a study on the 1973 restoration of the Bamboo Organ. Her study answers the question "What are the impacts and benefits of the restoration of the Bamboo Organ to the arts and culture of Las Pinas?55 The study has two objectives: to document the 1973 restoration of the Bamboo Organ and the identification of the impacts and benefits after the restoration to the arts and culture of Las Pinas City. Books on restoration and conservation, accounts about the Bamboo Organ and interviews of people knowledgeable about the study were the writer's sources of information that helped her in writing her study. Before discussing the 1973 restoration, the researcher briefly tackled the attempted repairs done on the Bamboo Organ prior to the 1973 restoration. Prior to the restoration, 11 attempted repairs were done on the instrument, 5 of which were successful in terms of replacing the damaged parts or improvement of the sound, 3 worsened the condition of the organ due to improper repair by unskilled people and 3 others which results can5t be determined due to undocumented details. The 1973 restoration has brought a lot of benefits to the arts and culture of Las Pinas. Organizations such as the Bamboo Organ Foundation, Incorporated, Diego Cera Organ Builders, Incorporated and Las Pinas Boys Choir have been established that would ensure the conservation and maintenance of the "pride" of the city. Deeper appreciation of the community for the historical instrument increased as seen in the number of visitors they have brought to the Bamboo Organ. Tourists are seen every now and then visiting the famous landmark so are the schools that send their students on a field trip to see and hear the Bamboo Organ. The tradition of organ building was revived and the awareness of restorers on the true meaning of "restoration” was clarified. Aside from the boosting of the confidence of the Las Pineros knowing a National Culture Treasure is located in their hometown, the unification of the community was also a result of the 1973 restoration. And after having been just declared a National Culture Treasure by the National Museum on Nov. 24, 2003, which ensured its continued protection in all the years to come, future generation will still get to experience the wonderful music the Bamboo Organ makes.