Harana Kwintet

Harana Kwintet is a Filipino jazz-folk fusion band based in Toronto. Inspired by the traditional Filipino practice of harana (serenade), the band reimagines classic Philippine music using contemporary jazz techniques, blending cultural authenticity with modern innovation.

The group was formed on March 6, 2024, with most of the members having just met and played with each other for the very first time. Despite their little acquaintance, they were able to find similarities in each other’s roots. They developed a close relationship as a result of this insight, which allowed them to relate to one another's musical tastes, early years, upbringing, and development as musicians. Harana Kwintet operates without a primary band leader, working collaboratively toward their shared passion for music. The group consists of: Giovanni Delos Santos (Piano), Carlo Sto. Domingo (Bass), Matthew Tenedero (Guitar), Joseph Funk (Trumpet), Marcus Jereza (Bass). Giovanni Delos Santos, the group's founder and a Filipino musician who immigrated to Canada, assembled the Kwintet after connecting with other talented Canadian-Filipino musicians through music school and Toronto’s thriving music scene. They first got together at the Emmet Ray on March 6, 2024, barely knowing each other, and performed a collection of Filipino classics in front of a full house.i

Since their debut, Harana Kwintet has performed at various Toronto venues, most recently at Humber Polytechnic for Giovanni’s second recital. They continue to explore classic Philippine tunes, reworking them into their signature jazz-folk-fusion style to captivate new audiences.