Asia Society Philippines proudly congratulates Filipino-American composer and percussionist Susie Ibarra for receiving the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Music. In July 2024, Asia Society launched the world premiere of Susie Ibarra’s “Sky Islands”, a musical tribute to the high-altitude rainforests and rich, fragile ecosystems of Luzon, Philippines. The traditional instruments incorporated in Ibarra’s performance, such as northern-style bamboo flutes and kulintang, a gong ensemble used in indigenous Filipino music, reflected a harmonious blend of nature and heritage. Sky Islands was commissioned by Asia Society, with support from Fromm Music Foundation at Harvard University, NYSCA, and NYFA Anonymous Was A Woman Environmental Artists Grants.

Born and raised in Houston to Filipino parents, Ibarra’s music reflects her background in a unique blend of Western and Filipino tunes. Her work in music, education, and environmental activism – from the documentation of indigenous traditional soundscapes, spotlighting environmental issues, and supporting educational initiatives – has been further underscored by this distinguished honor. Aside from the Pulitzer Prize, she is also a recipient of other fellowships from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, the DAAD Artists-in-Berlin Program, and United States Artists.

Susie Ibarra’s Pulitzer-winning work is a powerful reminder of how music transcends regional and cultural barriers, weaving together shared histories and futures. It echoes the mission of Asia Society to strengthen understanding and connections fostering mutual respect and shared progress across cultures.

Asia Society Philippines looks forward to collaborations that honor and amplify this transcendent power of the arts—bridging communities, deepening understanding, and celebrating the richness of Asia’s cultural foundations on the global stage.