Susie Ibarra's 'Sky Islands' Wins Pulitzer, Celebrating Filipino Biodiversity and Culture
Source: news.source.rappler
Filipino-American composer Susie Ibarra has been awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music for her composition 'Sky Islands,' which highlights the biodiversity and culture of Luzon's high-altitude rainforests. The piece, premiered at the Asia Society, features traditional Filipino instruments and was performed by an eight-piece ensemble. Ibarra's work was supported by various grants and reflects her dedication to environmental and cultural themes.
Key Points
Susie Ibarra won the Pulitzer Prize for Music for 'Sky Islands,' a piece celebrating Filipino heritage and biodiversity.
The composition focuses on Luzon's high-altitude rainforest habitats and uses traditional Filipino instruments like bamboo, kulintang, and flute.
'Sky Islands' premiered at the Asia Society and was supported by grants from Fromm Music Foundation, NYSCA, and NYFA.
The piece was performed by an eight-piece ensemble, including Ibarra and other notable musicians.
Ibarra's work was recognized for its innovative approach to composition and its environmental and cultural themes.
Ibarra previously received the Creative Capital 2025 Awards for another project, 'CHAN: Sonnets and Devotions in the Wilderness.'
In 2024, three Filipinas were finalists for the Pulitzer Prizes, highlighting the growing recognition of Filipino talent.
