On October 25, 2023, the American Composers Orchestra (ACO) will recognize and celebrate the achievements of three outstanding individuals at their gala event through the presentation of the Creative Catalyst Awards.

These honorees, Paquito D’Rivera, Dr. Indira Etwaroo, and Edward Yim, have been chosen because they exemplify the fundamental values cherished by the ACO, which include artistic excellence, innovation, community engagement, and equity.

Paquito D'Rivera, a highly acclaimed musician known for his contributions to jazz, bebop, and Latin music, boasts an impressive track record with 14 combined GRAMMY and Latin Grammy awards. His dedication extends to merging Latin music with various other musical genres. Additionally, he has composed numerous classical pieces, including his latest composition, "The Journey," commissioned by the National Symphony and featuring Yo-Yo Ma as the soloist, which premiered in 2022.

Dr. Indira Etwaroo, a multifaceted professional in the arts and culture realm, serves as the Director at Apple's Steve Jobs Theater. Prior to her current role, she held a leadership position at the Billie Holiday Theater, an organization that earned the prestigious Presidential Medal of the Arts for the 2020/21 period under her guidance. Dr. Etwaroo is recognized for her contributions as a producer, director, scholar, and arts executive.

Edward Yim, the Chief Content Officer and Senior Vice President at WQXR, New York's classical music radio station, has taken steps to broaden the station's audience inclusivity while spearheading digital innovations to ensure its relevance in the contemporary world.

Melissa Ngan, the CEO of the American Composers Orchestra, expressed immense enthusiasm about honoring these three visionaries who have significantly advanced artistic practices in various facets of their careers. Their contributions also involve nurturing and supporting emerging creative talents, who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the arts.

Furthermore, the ACO is delighted to bring its community together to celebrate the rich tapestry of music, cuisine, and culture from the Americas. This event also serves as a platform for fostering the creation and presentation of new American music in stages and communities across the nation.