Nearly 400 people came together on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom to support Education Through Music’s (ETM) 31st Annual Benefit Gala. Andy Hiliger was the emcee for the evening and the organization raised over $650,000 from the attendees.
The festivities kicked off with 20 bucket drummer and over 80 choral students participating from several of the 63 partner school districts in the ETM program. They performed “We Won’t Stop Dreaming” by PINKZEBRA and “Sing!” by Pentatonix arranged by Mac Huff. “Understanding the positive and influential impact music learning has on students is the reason we have existed for over 30 years. Music stimulates the mind. Elevates joy in learning and increases self-confidence. We have seen our programs and dedicated teachers unlock, inspire, and empower thousands of kids over the years,” said Dr. Janice Weinman, CEO, Education Through Music.
The gala honored: Google, accepted by Paul Darrah, Director of Workplace Design and Delivery, Google Americas and Warner Music Group accepted by Chris Atlas, Executive Vice President, East Coast Operations & Urban Music at Warner Records. Paul Darrah commented, in his acceptance speech on behalf of Google, “Music education is important for underserved kids in New York City. It’s an opportunity for them to step outside of the traditional classroom and get to experience the passion, the excitement, and the energy of music. It connects to mathematics and all of the things they’re learning and puts it in a place where they can relate and bring it outside of the classroom. ETM’s mission is an amazing contribution for New York City.”
Chris Atlas, accepting the award on behalf of Warner Music said, “I’m thrilled to be here to represent my colleagues and accept this wonderful honor from Education Through Music. We’re excited to extend our partnership with Education Through Music to ensure music education is a core subject for children throughout the U.S., helping to configure classrooms, bring in music teachers, develop band and orchestra ensembles, and create a unique curriculum to help young people use music to build their own self esteem.”
By Brandy Cochrane, Plant Candy
