Thurnauer School of Music: Gift of Music Gala Benefit

Overview
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The Gift of Music Gala Benefit Concert each year features performances and tributes by preeminent musicians, as well as performances by Thurnauer’s Ensembles. Some of the outstanding artists from our past galas include Wynton Marsalis, Joshua Bell, Steven Isserlis, Sharon Isbin, Colin Davin and Francisco Núñez.

The Gift of Music Gala Benefit Concert raises critically important scholarship funds for children who wish to study music, but whose families lack the financial resources. Since its inception, Thurnauer has awarded over $3 million in need-based scholarships.

Girls in colored scarves singing on stage.

Teen boys playing all playing guitar on stage.

Established in 1990 by Drs. Joan and Alan Handler, the Gift of Music Fund has awarded over $3 million in need-based scholarships. Hosted in recent years by Elliott Forrest of WQXR 105.9 FM, New York City’s only classical music station, the Gift of Music Benefit Gala Concert celebrates music and music making, salutes world-renowned artists and educators, and features performances by guest artists and Thurnauer’s student ensembles.

The 2021 event honored Joseph Polisi, President Emeritus and Chief China Officer of the Juilliard School, and included music and tributes by past guest artists Joshua Bell, Wynton Marsalis, Sharon Isbin, and Steven Isserlis.

Founding Director, Dorothy Kaplan Roffman.

For more information contact Fran Koszer at (201) 408-1404 or fkoszer@jccotp.org.