Ayda Akbal Wins Emerging Screen Composer of the Year!

Join us in celebrating the incredible Ayda Akbal, who has been named Emerging Screen Composer of the Year at the 2025 Screen Music Awards! 👏

Recognized for her distinctive musical voice and growing body of work, Ayda continues to establish herself as one of the most exciting and original new talents in screen composition. Her ability to blend emotional depth with sonic innovation has already earned her multiple accolades, including the 2023 Global Professional Development Award from the American Australian Association and selection for APRA AMCOS’s 23% Mentorship Program, initiatives that support diverse and emerging voices within the industry.

This year’s nominees for the Emerging Screen Composer of the Year category included Felix Wallis, James Mountain, and Luna Pan, all remarkable artists shaping the next generation of screen music.

In her heartfelt acceptance message, Ayda shared her gratitude for the honor:

“To be recognized for this award means that there is space for people like me, and that we are vital to the industry and the arts. I am so proud to represent our Aussie music industry wherever I go in the world.”

She also extended special thanks to Tammy Ari for accepting the award on her behalf and for being “an incredible mentor over the past year,” as well as to Erkki Veltheim and the Screen Music Awards Orchestra for bringing the event’s music to life.

Though she couldn’t attend the ceremony in person, Ayda’s presence was deeply felt, her humility, gratitude, and dedication resonating through every word. Her win marks not only a personal milestone but also a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting diverse, emerging composers and voices in the screen music landscape.

Congratulations again, Ayda, your artistry continues to inspire and illuminate. ✨