Yuri (b. 2004) is a Korean-Japanese composer and violinist based in NY with the dream of making people happy with music. With unique themes and extramusical ideas, her music tells a story and stimulates the listener's imagination. She is currently an intended music major at Princeton University (’27). Previous mentors include Manuel Sosa, Daniel Felsenfeld, Lucie Gelinas, and Reena Esmail at the Juilliard School Preparatory Division and Luna Composition Lab. Her compositions have been awarded by National YoungArts, ASCAP, NYO-USA, the American Prize, National Young Composers Challenge, Tribeca New Music, Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, and NYSSMA. She founded “Music Around Us Project,” where she organizes concerts and interactive presentations for senior citizens and young children to bring joy to the community. In her spare time, she enjoys chess, puzzles, movies, books, soccer, and table tennis.
Carolina Bragg finds inspiration in all kinds of places, from poetry to tropical birds. Her works have been performed at venues in San Francisco, St. Louis, Houston, and New York. Her recording project for three voices entitled “if bees are few,” for which she received the Tidal Shift Award in 2022, addresses the impact of climate change and the role of art in combating it. Other notable works include her first professional commission from the Friction Quartet. Inspired by the birds-of-paradise species, Carolina wrote “bird of paradise,” which had its radio premiere on NPR’s From the Top. Carolina is grateful to her mentors, who have included Paola Prestini, Alla Cohen, Reena Esmail, and Eugene Kim. An avid cellist, Carolina plays in her college orchestra and has volunteered as a cello and composition mentor. Listen at soundcloud.com/carolinabragg
Jason Dyba is a writer and producer. His clients have included John Maxwell, Panda Express, The Home Depot, the American Heart Association, and the Global Leadership Summit. Jason has directed pieces with Matthew McConaughey and Malcolm Gladwell; he’s composed music for GRAMMY-winning artists Chris Tomlin and Gaither Vocal Band; and he speaks regularly on creativity. Jason and his family reside in Atlanta, GA.