On April 18th, the New York Philharmonic hosted its annual Fun at the Phil Family Benefit in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center. The event featured a Young People’s Concert followed by a festive party for all ages. The benefit raised over $175,000 to support the Philharmonic’s education programs offered in schools and throughout communities citywide.
Saturday’s Young People’s Concert (YPC), titled Shall We Dance?, explored how popular dances from around the world have inspired some of classical music’s most beloved works. The Orchestra was conducted by Domingo Hindoyan and featured host and dancer Daniel Ulbricht alongside dancer Ella Titus, with staging by designer-director Doug Fitch. In keeping with YPC tradition, families were invited to arrive early, giving kids the chance to try out instruments, meet musicians, and make crafts with New York Philharmonic Teaching Artists and fellow attendees.
Following the concert, Fun at the Phil supporters enjoyed a festive celebration on the Leon and Norma Hess Grand Promenade. Spotify supported the celebration by sponsoring post-concert party activities including a set by DJ Annie Red, The Bosco photo booth, and a candy station for all guests to enjoy.
Additional activities included cotton candy by Fluff + Fluff, balloons; facepainting, glitter tattoos, and magic by Sheila Jordan Art; watercolor portraits by Bex Schneider; dancing; artmaking; instrument tryouts with New York Philharmonic Teaching Artists; and a bubbly bar for adults. Tuckernuck provided patterned linens for the activity stations. The event was catered by CxRA and Fares Florals & Events provided décor elements.
Guests included New York Philharmonic Board Members Laura Chang and Christopher Kellen; Spotify Chief Public Affairs Officer and Fun at the Phil Co-Chair Dustee Jenkins; Fun at the Phil Co-Chairs Jessie Ding, Sugie Hong Bruttomesso, Sherry Lee, Whitney Mogavero, Ji Park Kwak, and Malena Zhang; Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal; New York Philharmonic leadership, musicians, and patrons with their families.
If the afternoon belonged to the next generation of music lovers, the evening belonged to the connoisseurs. Trading the bright, bustling energy of Lincoln Center for the rarefied air of Le Bernardin Privé, the city’s support for its musical institutions proved as robust as it is diverse, as the world of fine wine and classical mastery converged for The Perlman Music Program’s (PMP) 19th Annual Wine Auction.
The gala raised over $2 million dollars, doubling a historic best, and honored philanthropist Henry Cornell, a cornerstone of the wine auction since its inception. Cornell, known for his leadership at Goldman Sachs and service to the Whitney Museum and Navy SEAL Foundation, was recognized for his visionary support of PMP’s mission.
Led by world-renowned violinist and 16-time GRAMMY winner Itzhak Perlman and his wife, founder Toby Perlman, PMP continues to set the global standard for musical mentorship. As a dedicated member of the violin faculty and conductor of the PMP Orchestra, Mr. Perlman remains a daily presence in the lives of the students, personally guiding the next generation of great artists.
The sold-out evening featured Michelin-Starred Cuisine with a four-course dinner designed by Chef Eric Ripert. Prestigious Pairings with exclusive champagne provided by Ruinart, alongside a curated selection of exceptional vintages. A Lively Auction with renowned auctioneer Charles Antin commanded the room, leading a spirited competition for rare wines and luxury experiences.
“We are proud to honor Henry Cornell for his extraordinary philanthropy and lasting impact,” said Mr. Perlman, who remains a dedicated leader of the PMP violin faculty and conductor of its orchestra. “His dedication aligns with the vision my wife Toby and I established 31 years ago: to create a space where young musicians are encouraged to explore and develop their unique artistic voices. This event is vital to making that vision a reality for our students.”
