In Philippine culture, courtship is far more quiet and indirect unlike in some countries. If a man wants to be taken seriously by a woman, he has to visit the woman’s family and introduce himself formally to the parents of the girl.  It is always expected that the guy must show his face to the girl's family. 



            Another thing that a man does in courting a woman is the “harana”- old Filipino courtship tradition where man serenades a woman by singing underneath her window at night. The man is accompanied by his friends who provide moral support in addition to singing.



             The man may sing a famous Tagalog harana, like “O, Ilaw” (Oh, Light). In this song, the man compares the woman to a star in the dark sky. The song lyrics specifically ask her to open her window and look out at him. If the harana will be successful the lady will invites the man and his company inside for refreshments or the lady will join in the singing, or both.



            Harana is rarely done in the Philippines, but it is a tradition that shows and reminds the beauty of Philippine culture.



             So, my suggestion to you guys out there who wants to do something special for your special lady, think about doing a harana. It will definitely save you some money and show that special girl your true love for her. That’s something unique, priceless and from the heart.






credits to:



 



http://tagaloglang.com/Filipino-Music/Tagalog-Love-Songs/harana-serenade.html



photos from:



http://www.heritageartcenter.com/2011/01/max-adlao.html



http://tipakan.com/the-rediscovery-of-harana-and-its-masters



http://philippine-painting.com/featured/harana