A 14-year-old Filipino student from Dubai has achieved a milestone by performing at New York’s Carnegie Hall, a venue celebrated worldwide for its history and prestige.
Jaira Marie Yzabel Carranza, a junior high school student and award-winning singer, delivered an unforgettable performance at the Weill Recital Hall on December 21, as part of the winners’ recital for this year’s American Protégé, the largest international music competition in the United States. Carranza clinched first place in both the Broadway and Traditional Music categories.
“It felt surreal to be on that historic stage, knowing that so many talented and legendary people had performed there,” Carranza shared in a Rappler report. “I felt a mix of excitement, nervousness, and overwhelming gratitude.”
Carranza’s repertoire during the recital highlighted her technical mastery and emotional depth, a result of months of intensive preparation. Her coach, Elipas Sibua, who also served as her pianist, guided her through the process, emphasizing both precision and connection with the music.
“We’ve focused not just on hitting the right notes but also on bringing out the emotion of the songs,” Carranza explained. “This has helped me grow as a performer and a storyteller.”
Carranza, who has previously earned accolades for her roles in musical theater and film, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to perform at such a revered venue.
“Even though the recital was in the smaller Weill Recital Hall, it’s still part of Carnegie Hall,” she said. “I hope one day I can perform on the Perelman Stage.”
Her mother, Mardia Carranza, described the audience’s enthusiastic reaction. “The applause after her performance was noticeably louder compared to others,” she said. “Her uncle, who was in the audience, was moved to tears. He’s into music, so I know his reaction was genuine.”
Sibua, who serves as the UAE national director for the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), is no stranger to nurturing talent. Two of his other protégés, nine-year-old Woria Deilamani and 12-year-old Charlotte Slider, also performed at the recital.
Carranza’s achievements include four medals at the 2023 WCOPA in California, numerous singing competition wins in Dubai, and a leading role in the Cannes Art Film Festival-winning short film Hamog.
Reflecting on her experience, Carranza said, “It’s a moment I’ll never forget. It has inspired me to keep working hard and chasing my dreams. I hope other aspiring young people like me get the chance to perform here, too.”
