Passing it On: Thirty Years of Musical Innovation

The New World Symphony's 30th Anniversary Gala

New World Symphony, America’s Orchestral Academy (NWS), hosted its coveted 30th Anniversary Gala, presented by Gala Chairs Sarah Arison and Thomas Wilhelm. The black-tie affair raised the most funds in all of NWS history, which will go directly towards supporting its fellowship program, its work in the community and innovative programming. The evening also paid tribute to composter Leonard Bernstein in the centennial of his birth with a special performance led by Founder and Artistic Director, Michael Tilson Thomas (MTT).

Titled “Passing It On: Thirty Years of Musical Innovation,” the gala took place at the iconic Frank Gehry-designed New World Center. The evening began with a light cocktail reception where guests raised their glasses to the organization’s many accomplishments. Patrons were then ushered into the concert hall, where they were treated to an impressive all-Bernstein program by the New World Symphony Fellows, MTT and three special guest vocalists: Alexandra Silber, Jessica Vosk and Tony Yazbeck. The program featured an exciting variety of works, from Yazbeck’s “Lucky to be Me” and Vosk’s “I Can Cook Too,” to select audience favorites from West Side Story. A marquee moment of the evening was Sarah Arison’s powerful speech honoring her grandparents and co-founders of NWS, Ted and Lin Arison. The Gala Chair reflected on her experience with the organization and its growth in the past three decades.

Following the performance, Thierry Isambert Culinary and Event Design staged a seated dinner throughout the New World Center, treating guests to a delectable three-course meal with a myriad of fantastic cuisine options. After the affair, Gala patrons danced the night away at an exclusive late-night after party with live performances by musical guests Michael Andrew and the Atomic Big Band and Picadillo.

All proceeds from the 30th Anniversary Gala benefit New World Symphony’s mission to prepare young musicians for careers in the world of classical music and provide meaningful cultural programs to the South Florida community. Platinum Sponsors for the evening included Miami Cancer Institute and Carnival Cruise Lines, and gala sponsors included Bacardi, CULTURED Magazine and Total Wine and More.

Notable guests included Sarah Arison and Thomas Wilhelm, Gala Chairs; Michael Tilson Thomas, NWS Founder and Artistic Director; New World Symphony Fellows; Alexandra Sibler, vocalist; Jessica Vosk, vocalist; Tony Yazbeck, vocalist.