Julian Felipe

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Filipino composer and pianist best known for creating the music of the Philippine National Anthem.Born in Cavite, Philippines. Composed 'Marcha Nacional Filipina' (later adopted as the national anthem) in 1898. Worked as a music teacher and church organist. Witnessed the proclamation of Philippine independence where his composition was first performed.
  • Arrested and imprisoned by Spanish authorities for involvement in the Philippine Revolution prior to composing the anthem.
  • Originally composed the anthem as purely instrumental; lyrics by José Palma were added in 1899.
  • His anthem was officially adopted as the Philippine National Anthem in 1938 under Commonwealth Act No. 382.
  • Died of heart failure in Sampaloc, Manila during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II.
  • Despite his iconic status, lived modestly as a piano teacher and church organist after the revolution.