In a special gala evening that honored student achievements, celebrated orchestral music, and recognized donors and supporters, Palm Beach Symphony hosted the 23rd Annual Gala, A Standing Ovation, for more than 420 guests at the majestic The Breakers Palm Beach. The Gala raised more than $850,000 for the Symphony’s renowned live performances and transformational educational and community initiatives.
During the cocktail reception, guests were treated to a performance by the student jazz combo from West Boca Raton Community High School before being escorted into the dazzling Venetian Ballroom where they enjoyed a beautiful dinner dance and a live auction with priceless experiences and dancing to the music of the Danny Beck Band.
“There were so many highlights from the evening,” Symphony CEO David McClymont said. “From our student performers to our award winners to an unbelievable live auction to the launch of a $250,000 matching challenge grant, this Gala had it all. I cannot thank our Gala chairs, our board, our donors, sponsors and all of our guests enough for their generosity and support which make it possible for the Symphony’s mission to endure for years to come.”
(Photo credit: Capehart Photography)
Announced at the Gala was the exciting “Meet the Match” campaign, part of Palm Beach Symphony’s ongoing efforts to support music education programs. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Palm Beach residents Paul and Karen Levy, every dollar donated will be matched, up to $250,000, ensuring that Palm Beach Symphony continues to bring the joy of music to the next generation, helping young minds thrive and creating lasting connections through the power of music.
Esteemed grand benefactors, Leonard and Norma Klorfine, were presented with the distinguished Golden Baton Society Award by Palm Beach Symphony Board Chair, James R. Borynack. “On behalf of the Executive Committee, Board of Directors, Maestro Gerard Schwarz, our musicians and the dedicated staff, along with our Honorary Golden Baton Society Chairs Patrick and Milly Park, Gala Chairs, Honorary Gala Chairs and the Gala Committee, we honor Leonard and Norma for their exceptional contributions to Palm Beach Symphony,” said Borynack. “We offer our deepest gratitude for their generosity and unwavering support through Klorfine Foundation. Their impact on the Symphony and our community’s cultural vitality is immeasurable.”
Susan and Bob Wright, who chaired the Gala, thanked Honorary Gala Co-Chairs Cathie Black and Tom Harvey, Symphony Board Chair Borynack and the dedicated Gala Committee. “A prestigious Gala like this comes to life through the unwavering support of so many,” Susan Wright said. “While tonight is a celebration of fine music, great food and wonderful company, let us remember the true purpose of this evening—raising crucial funds to support the Symphony’s mission of bringing live orchestral music to the people of Palm Beach County and to provide students from underserved areas with access to music education and instruments they might not otherwise have.”
During the Gala, three students received the renowned Lisa Bruna B-Major Award. First prize was presented to flutist Thomas “Aidan” Gardner, a senior at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, who received a professional model Powell Conservatory sterling silver handmade flute and custom Lumina cut headjoint with a 14k rose gold crown, which he performed with at the Gala. Second prize was awarded to Malorie Bliss, a senior at Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, who received an exquisite handmade cello by Stefan Petrov, a Herman Luger bow and a polycarbonate flight case. Third prize was awarded to Palm Beach Central High School senior Alexander Rodriguez who received a custom-made Willson 2975 professional model euphonium built especially for his needs.
Palm Beach Symphony is thankful for the generosity of all those who supported the Gala including Maestro Benefactors James R. Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui / FINDLAY Galleries, Lugano, the Addison Hines Charitable Trust and Susan and Bob Wright; Concertmaster Grand Sponsors Michele and Howard Kessler; Orchestra Musician Sponsors Citizens Private Bank, Marietta Muiña McNulty and McNulty Charitable Foundation, Tish Messinger, Lois Pope and Yafa Signed Jewels; and Table Sponsors Cathie Black and Tom Harvey, Patricia Lambrecht, Mark Lippman. Additional sponsors included Wines: John D. Herrick; Champagnes for Call to Heart by Palm Beach Society Ladies Guild Members Mrs. James N. Bay, Carol L. Bruce, Sophia Burnichon, Amy Collins, Suzanne Dansby, Mary Demory, Dr. Aban Kavasmaneck, Marietta McNulty, Jody Schwarz and Judy Woods; Cocktail Hour: Carol and Joseph Andrew Hays, The Ann Eden Woodward Foundation/James and Judy Woods, trustees, Dr. Martha Rodriguez and Dr. Jesus Perez Mendez;Gala Program: Dorothy and Sidney Kohl; Gala Favors: Dr. Richard and Diane Farber; Photography: Nancy Stone; Valet: Jane and Charles Carroll, Linda R. Olsson and Alfred Zucaro.
Priceless donations to the live auction included The Kennedy Center Honors Experience by Lugano; Wall of Wine by Sophia and Manny Burnichon and Private Cask Imports, Inc.; Casa de Campo; Chef James Tahhan; and Gallivant ltd and French Side Travel. Also thanked for their support of the Gala were: Charles and Ann L. Johnson; Klorfine Foundation, Mrs. James N. Bay; Sanda and Jerry Lambert; Liz Peek/Peek Family Foundation; Paul and Wendy Raether/The Raether Family Charitable Trust; The Dreman Foundation; Ann and Lee Fensterstock; Carol and Jerome Trautschold; Ann and Lee Fensterstock; Gene and Kathy Bernstein; Lynn and Robert Mackle; and many other sponsors and partners.
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