Composer

The appeal was dismissed because the Petitioner failed to demonstrate eligibility as an individual of extraordinary ability. Specifically, the Petitioner did not establish receipt of a major, internationally recognized award, nor did he satisfy at least three of the ten alternate regulatory criteria. While the Petitioner met the published material and leading or critical role criteria, he failed to prove the awards criterion (his 'Best Original Song' award lacked national/international significance) and the display criterion (his musical compositions were heard, not seen or displayed, in films).

The appeal was dismissed because the Petitioner failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and that she is among the small percentage at the very top of her field. While the Director found three criteria met (published material, scholarly articles, and display of work), the awards presented were not established as nationally or internationally recognized, and scholarships were deemed academic training rather than qualifying awards. The Petitioner's appeal brief also failed to adequately address the specific shortcomings identified in the Director's final merits determination, leading to those issues being considered waived.

The appeal was dismissed because the Petitioner failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and that she is among the small percentage at the very top of her field, despite meeting three initial criteria (published material, judging, leading/critical role). Evidence of media coverage was limited to a local newspaper's 'City' section from 1996-2008, lacking national/international reach or post-2008 continuity. A single instance of judging local musicians in 2016 was not deemed indicative of extraordinary ability. Her leading roles in cultural organizations in I I from 1996-2008 also lacked documentation of sustained acclaim or comparable activities after 2008, failing to show a maintained level of acclaim.