Master Folk Artist
SAMAON SULAIMAN
Who is he?
Samaon Sulaiman was a Filipino musician who was named a National Living Treasure. By the age of 35, he was already well-known in Maganoy for his abilities on the instrument and as a teacher to aspiring kutyapi practitioners. He is acknowledged as having an impact on other local individuals in his field, including Esmael Ahmad, Bitul Sulaiman, Nguda Latip, Ali Ahmad, and Tukal Nanalon. Sulaiman also performs on the kulintang, the agong (a hung bossed gong with a broad rim), the gandingan, the palendag, and the tambul.
Sulaiman is renowned for his mastery of folk art and his commitment to preserving national traditions. His style concentrates on the folk music genre, which corresponds to his mastery of the Kutiyapi. Unfortunately, in some areas of Mindanao, this traditional instrument—widely recognized as the most difficult and demanding to learn—has begun to die out. However, Sulaiman's dedication, passion, and level of technical skills have allowed him to master the instrument and keep the tradition alive, inspiring younger generations to learn about and appreciate it. Dinaladay, Linapu, Mizuna, Binalig, and others are some of his known pieces that truly reflected his talent and musical style.
