Hannah Ishizaki, a composer and sound artist from Princeton, New Jersey, has been chosen as the next Composer-in-Residence for Young Concert Artists (YCA), a renowned organization dedicated to launching the careers of exceptional young musicians. This appointment marks a significant milestone in Ishizaki’s burgeoning career and offers substantial opportunities for artistic growth and professional development.
The selection process for the YCA Composer-in-Residence position was highly competitive, with over 100 young composers submitting applications. Each applicant was required to provide three original scores, which were then evaluated by a distinguished jury of industry professionals. The panel included YCA President Daniel Kellogg, along with notable composers and musicians such as Katherine Balch, Steven Banks, and Jennifer Koh.
Ishizaki’s music has been described by The New York Times as “imaginative… effective and moving.” Her compositional approach focuses on exploring the physicality of music performance to foster connections between musicians and audiences. This innovative perspective has led her to experiment with a wide range of instruments and sound-generating methods, from traditional orchestral instruments to digital sensors and even unconventional objects like rocks and zippers.
The YCA Composer-in-Residence program offers Ishizaki a comprehensive package of support and opportunities. During her tenure, she will receive three commissions totaling $18,000. These commissions will involve collaborations with current YCA artists and alumni, ensuring multiple performances of her new works. Additionally, Ishizaki will be signed to a minimum three-year management contract with YCA, providing her with access to industry connections, performance opportunities, and career guidance.
YCA President Daniel Kellogg expressed enthusiasm about Ishizaki’s selection, noting her “creative spark, breadth of expression, imagination, and robust artistic voice.” He also highlighted her collaborative spirit and passion for connecting with performers, qualities that align well with YCA’s mission to foster artistic partnerships.
The YCA Composer-in-Residence program has a track record of identifying and supporting exceptional talent. Since its establishment in 1994, the program has brought 14 composers to public attention, many of whom have gone on to achieve significant recognition in the field. Alumni of the program have received prestigious awards including GRAMMY Awards, Pulitzer Prizes, and commissions from major orchestras and renowned soloists.
Ishizaki’s appointment to this role places her in the company of these accomplished predecessors. It also provides her with a platform to further develop her artistic vision and establish meaningful relationships within the classical music industry. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, the classical music community will be watching with interest to see how her unique voice and collaborative approach will contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary composition.
The dates for Ishizaki’s residency are set for 2025-2027, with her selection announced in March 2025. This timeline suggests that audiences and industry professionals can anticipate new works and performances from Ishizaki in the coming years, as she takes full advantage of the opportunities provided by this prestigious residency.
