Antonio Molina (composer)

Antonio Molina (1894-1980) was a Filipino composer, conductor, and music administrator. He is considered one of the "Triumvirate of Filipino Composers," along with Francisco Santiago and Nicanor Abelardo. Molina was a pioneer in introducing modernism to Philippine music, breaking away from the strictly Romantic style favored by earlier composers.

Born in Quiapo, Manila, Molina began his musical studies early and pursued further training at the University of the Philippines Conservatory of Music, where he later became a faculty member and eventually dean.

Molina’s compositions include orchestral works, chamber music, vocal pieces, and compositions for piano. He is particularly known for his use of Philippine folk elements and indigenous instruments in his works, blending them with contemporary compositional techniques. Some of his notable compositions include "Hatinggabi" (Midnight), a serenade for solo violin and piano; "Kung sa Iyong Gunita" (If in Your Memory), a popular song; and the orchestral work "Misa Antoniana Grand Festival Mass."

Beyond his composing career, Molina was also a respected music educator and administrator. He played a significant role in shaping the landscape of Philippine classical music through his teaching, conducting, and advocacy for Filipino composers and musicians. He was also a music critic and commentator, contributing to the development of musical discourse in the Philippines. His contributions to Philippine music were recognized with the National Artist of the Philippines award in 1973.