Kudiyapi

Kudiyapi, also spelled kudyapi, is a traditional two-stringed lute of the Moro peoples of Mindanao in the southern Philippines. It is particularly associated with the Maguindanao, Maranao, Tausug, and Yakan communities, though variations occur among groups. The instrument is used to accompany vocal music, epic recitations, and social performances such as courtship, weddings, and community gatherings.

Construction and tuning: The kudiyapi has a hollow wooden body and a long neck with two strings. The body is carved from wood and shaped into a boat-like form, with tuning pegs at the neck. Typically one string serves as a drone while the other provides melody; players pluck the strings with fingers or a plectrum to produce bright, resonant timbres.

Playing tradition: It is commonly used to accompany sung storytelling and chanted epics, and is often performed by male musicians though women also perform in some contexts. The instrument may be part of small ensembles with other traditional instruments such as gongs and drums, or used solo in intimate performances.

Status and revival: The kudiyapi reflects Mindanao's diverse musical heritage. Its regional variants show differences in tuning, repertoire, and construction. Today artisans continue to craft new kudiyapis, and educators and cultural organizations promote the instrument as part of intangible heritage in the Philippines.