The International Space Station (ISS) is about to get a dose of Emirati-American creativity. In a unique collaboration, the winning compositions of two New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) students will be streamed aboard the orbiting laboratory this September.
Summer Reid, an American student visiting NYUAD, and Nadine Kabbani, an Emirati alumna, emerged victorious from the inaugural ASTROBEAT – Music from Space competition. This competition, offering a rare opportunity for student musicians, attracted entries from around the world. The winning pieces will be streamed alongside music by established artists, including the "Space Pianist" Leonardo Barilaro, Grammy-nominated cellist Tina Guo, and world-renowned producer Steve Mazzaro.
This initiative, spearheaded by NYUAD's Centre for Astrophysics and Space Science, transcends geographical boundaries. "The collaboration with NYUAD, " said Andrea Macciò, the Centre's director, "was initiated and supported to bridge the gap between artistic expression and the vastness of space. " Barilaro, expressing his enthusiasm for the competition, stated, "This takes space art to the next level. It's a truly special opportunity for the students. "
The competition jury had a challenging task, sifting through numerous outstanding submissions. Ultimately, Reid and Kabbani's compositions resonated with the judges for their originality and evocative soundscapes. Details about the specific nature of their music remain undisclosed, adding an element of surprise to the upcoming space broadcast.
The students' achievement is a testament to NYUAD's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts scene. The university's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, where Reid is enrolled, provides a nurturing environment for aspiring musicians. NYUAD's nurturing environment undoubtedly contributed to Reid and Kabbani's artistic development, ultimately propelling them to this extraordinary achievement.
This celestial serenade is more than just a musical event; it signifies a new frontier in artistic expression. By beaming music from talented students into space, the ASTROBEAT competition paves the way for future collaborations that bridge the divide between science and art. The upcoming broadcast promises to be a landmark event, showcasing the boundless potential of human creativity and its ability to transcend the earthly realm.