An album paying tribute to efforts in protecting the land of Taiwan recently won in the World Tradition category of prestigious U.S.-based Independent Music Awards.
Produced in 2012 by Wu Chin-tai and released by New Taipei City-headquartered Wind Music International Corp., “The Eyes of the Sky” comprises 10 pieces written by local artists such as Fan Zong-pei, Lin Sheng-xiang and Judy Wu, as well as Koji Sakurai from Japan.
The album documents the efforts by unsung heroes in spotlighting issues of sustainability in Taiwan such as ecological preservation, environmental awareness and local agriculture. Among the tracks, “Wheat Field Fantasy” tells the story of Rejoice Bread Workshop in Yunlin County—a bakery dedicated to training mentally challenged children while promoting locally grown soy beans and wheat.
Songwriter Wu said what workshop founder Adama Shih has accomplished is especially inspiring in a world filled with food safety scandals. “Initiatives such as the workshop are real blessings to Taiwan.”
According to Ken Yang, general manager of Wind Music and a songwriter on the winning album, at least one of the firm’s releases has earned an IMA nomination every year since 2008. “The latest award represents yet another top honor and recognition of our efforts in introducing more local music talents to the world,” he said.
In addition to the album, designer Xiao Qing-yang from New Taipei City collected best album packaging award for his design of “The Epic of Love” by mainland Chinese singer Song Zuying.
First presented in 2001 by U.S.-based Music Resources Group, the IMAs honor best self-released and indie label projects selected by artists and industry judging panels. (SFC-JSM)
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