Florida State University’s College of Music assistant professor Liliya Ugay has been named the 2024 Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Distinguished Composer of the Year, an award that recognizes a composer of the most significant composition from among all works commissioned by the MTNA state affiliates.
“The College of Music boasts highly accomplished and dedicated faculty members who are enthusiastic about collaboration, innovation and performing works by composers,” said Greg Jones, associate dean of engagement in the College of Music. “This level of commitment and openness to new ideas is rare and greatly valued within our institution.”
Ugay, assistant professor of composition and director of Polymorphia New Music Ensemble in the College of Music, is the first woman to win this award in 24 years. She composed “Pull No More,” a collaborative piece inspired by her experience of childbirth and common clichés related to the harp. The composition highlights the capabilities of the electro-acoustic harp, an instrument that integrates traditional harp playing with electronic effects.
“Pull No More” was first performed at the Florida State Music Teachers Association Conference. The piece then competed at the national level, where it was selected as the most significant composition from among 25 works commissioned in 2024.
“This award is incredibly meaningful to me because it represents not just my work, but the collaborative spirit and support I received from Florida State University,” Ugay said. “We are committed not only to teaching and conducting meetings but also to pursuing excellence in our profession. This dedication distinguishes us from other universities, as we receive exceptional support that is not commonly found elsewhere.”
Ugay worked closely with FSU Assistant Professor of Harp and Entrepreneurship Noël Wan to develop the award-winning composition. Wan, an international award-winning harpist, brought her expertise and dedication to the project, resulting in a piece that showcases the versatility and depth of the electro-acoustic harp.
“‘Pull No More’ is a testament to the synergy that emerges from a true collaborative relationship between a composer and performer,” Wan said. “Liliya and I worked together every step of the way — her brilliant compositional vision with my experience programming live effects on the electro-acoustic harp — to bring this amazing piece to the world.”
The collaboration between Ugay and Wan was a reunion of old friends. Both had studied together at the Yale School of Music, and their shared history added a layer of camaraderie and mutual understanding to their work.
“Pull No More” was commissioned by the Florida State Music Teachers Association, a state chapter of the MTNA. Next month, Ugay and Wan will present this work at the 2025 MTNA National Conference in Minneapolis.
For more information, visit music.fsu.edu.