Maria Carpena

Maria Carpena (October 22, 1886 – March 8, 1915) was a Filipina stage actress and soprano singer.

[1][4] Despite being disowned by her father, Carpena moved to Manila to study at Colegio de Santa Rosa and learned music from composer Fulgencio Tolentino.

[2][3] At 15 years old, Carpena performed her debut concert in Zorrilla Theatre and became a celebrity overnight.

Carpena starred in many plays such as Lukso ng Dugo, Minda Mora and La Confianza Mata al Hombre.

Carpena's first solo, Ang Maya, was recorded in a makeshift studio in Manila Hotel.

"[3][4][6][7] Carpena did not receive formal training and never learned how to read sheet music.