The Manhattan School of Music (MSM) recently hosted its highly anticipated 2023 Gala at The Rainbow Room, located in Rockefeller Plaza. Manhattan School of Music (MSM) is a prestigious conservatory located in New York City, known for its excellence in music education and performance. Founded in 1917, the school has a rich history of nurturing talented musicians and shaping the future of classical music.
MSM offers a comprehensive range of programs and degrees in music, including undergraduate and graduate programs in instrumental and vocal performance, composition, jazz, and musical theatre. The school’s faculty consists of renowned artists and educators who provide students with world-class training and mentorship.
One of the hallmarks of MSM is its emphasis on performance opportunities. Students have the chance to showcase their skills in numerous recitals, ensemble performances, and fully staged productions throughout the academic year. The school’s prestigious Opera Studies Program provides aspiring opera singers with professional-level training and performance experiences.
The star-studded event was held to honor two esteemed members of the MSM Board of Trustees, Marcia Clay Hamilton and Edward Lowenthal, for their long-standing commitment and contributions to the institution.
The evening was dedicated to celebrating the School’s renowned Opera Studies Program, and it featured captivating performances by a lineup of exceptional artists. Among the notable performers was J’Nai Bridges (BM’09), a two-time Grammy Award winner and esteemed mezzo-soprano from the Metropolitan Opera. Also gracing the stage was Bernie Williams (BM’16), a former New York Yankee and Latin Grammy-nominated jazz guitarist, who also serves as an MSM Trustee. The performances were not limited to established professionals, as recent MSM graduates and current students also showcased their extraordinary talents.
The Gala witnessed outstanding performances by bass-baritone Le Bu (BM ’22) and baritone Daniel Rich (MM’19), both of whom are currently part of the prestigious Lindemann Young Artist Development program at the Metropolitan Opera. Le Bu was particularly recognized for his victory in the 2022 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, while Daniel Rich’s exceptional skills earned him the title of winner in the inaugural New York City Opera/MSM Duncan Williams Voice Competition earlier this year.
The event was co-hosted by Richard Gaddes (HonDMA’17), the former General Director of the Santa Fe Opera and founding General Director of the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, alongside Melissa Wegner (MM ’05), the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Development Program and Laffont Competition.
The Gala drew an impressive crowd of distinguished guests, including Richard Gaddes, Melissa Wegner, Marcia Clay Hamilton, Edward Lowenthal, J’Nai Bridges, Bernie Williams, Le Bu, Daniel Rich, and notable figures such as Herbie Hancock, Gigi Hancock, Ann Ziff, Adrienne Vittadini, Sylvia Hemingway, and Maribel Lieberman.
The 2023 Gala at the Manhattan School of Music was a resounding success, showcasing the exceptional talent nurtured within the institution and honoring those who have made significant contributions to its success. This grand celebration of music and artistry is a testament to the school’s dedication to excellence in education and performance, further solidifying its position as a leader in the world of music education.
