octavina

An octavina is a plucked string instrument in the guitar-lute family, used primarily in the Philippines as a member of rondalla ensembles. It is the octave-lower counterpart to the bandurria, sharing a similar body shape and string-course arrangement but pitched lower to extend the ensemble's range.

Construction and stringing: The instrument has a pear-shaped body with a carved wooden back and a soundboard. In modern models, it typically features nine courses of strings (18 strings) in pairs, though some variants have eight or ten courses (16 or 20 strings). Strings are typically metal or nylon, and are plucked with the right hand, often with fingernails or a plectrum. The left hand frets along the short scale to form scales and chords.

Tuning and range: The octavina is tuned an octave below the bandurria, following a similar course-by-course layout. Exact pitch depends on model and key, but the instrument generally serves as a mid- to low-range harmonic and melodic voice within the rondalla.

Playing and repertoire: In rondalla performances, the octavina provides chords, octave-based bass lines, and arpeggios. It is usually plucked with a pick or fingernails, with the right hand employing plectrum technique in many ensembles. Repertoire includes traditional Filipino tunes, arrangements of classical pieces, and contemporary rondalla works.

History and usage: The octavina originated within the Spanish-influenced rondalla tradition and later became a standard instrument in Filipino ensembles in the 20th century, valued for extending harmonic support and melodic texture. Variants exist in other regions with similar instruments tuned to lower octaves.