Florida State University’s College of Music assistant professor Liliya Ugay has been recognized as the 2024 Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Distinguished Composer of the Year. This accolade acknowledges a composer for the most notable piece created from all works commissioned by the MTNA’s state affiliates.

“The College of Music features exceptionally skilled and devoted faculty who are passionate about collaboration, innovation, and performing pieces by various composers,” stated Greg Jones, associate dean of engagement in the College of Music. “Such dedication and receptiveness to new concepts is uncommon and highly esteemed in our institution.”

Ugay, an assistant professor of composition and the director of the Polymorphia New Music Ensemble at the College of Music, is the first female recipient of this award in 24 years. She crafted “Pull No More,” a collaborative work inspired by her experiences with childbirth and prevalent clichés associated with the harp. The piece showcases the potential of the electro-acoustic harp, an instrument that merges traditional harp performance with electronic effects.

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