SUSIE IBARRA — Sky Islands

Composer, percussionist, and sound artist Susie Ibarra brings her unique voice to the Pierre Boulez Saal with Sky Islands. The piece, which won Ibarra the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Music, was inspired by the “sky islands,” distinct ecosystems in the mountainous rainforests of Luzon, Philippines, the composer’s home region. Conceived for eight musicians, it combines a musical score with Philippine gong-chime and bamboo instruments, creating a floating “garden of sounds.” Sky Islands is a musical call to action—to preserve the world’s biodiversity and raise awareness for climate change.