70th Anniversary Gala
Music Academy of the West celebrates all–Steinway distinction.
Nearly 300 guests celebrated the launch of the Music Academy of the West’s Summer School and Festival at an elegant black-tie event on the Academy’s Miraflores Campus. Guests were greeted at the main entrance by Music Academy of the West (MAW) staff and a red carpet. Various Steinways were on display for the Steinway Style Gala, which was also celebrating MAW for its 55 Steinways, an All Steinway School distinction from Steinway & Sons.
“We were thrilled to have two musicians of this caliber take the stage to launch the Academy’s historic 70th anniversary season. Yuja or Jean-Yves alone would have made this event one to remember, but both artists performing together made for an exhilarating musical experience.”
Scott Reed
Steinway & Sons instrument on display at the event.
Gala attendees enjoy a sit-down dinner before the concert.
Event co-chair Maurice Singer gives a speech to guests at dinner.
Steinway Senior Director of Retail Sales Gavin English and MAW President Scott Reed (right) speak to guests.
MAW president Scott Reed with Board Chair Marge Cafarelli (left) and Jan Hill (right).
Gala attendees waiting for concert by Steinway artists Thibaudet and Wang.
Event co-chairs Hyon Chough (far left) and Maurice Singer (far right) with artists.
A Steinway on display at the end of the evening.
A Steinway & Sons Spirio, the world’s finest high resolution player piano, provided music while guests mingled outside during a cocktail hour. Guests adjourned to Hahn Hall for a rare collaboration concert featuring Steinway Artists Yuja Wang and Jean-Yves Thibaudet, who performed works, together and solo, by Brahms, Lutoslawski, Milhard, Mozart, Rachmaninoff and Ravel. This was a first ever duo performance for the artists. The concert also marked the debut of MAW’s new Steinway Model D concert grand.
President and CEO Scott Reed shared his excitement for MAW attaining its All Steinway School distinction, which few, select institutions in the world have attained. Reed and Steinway Senior Director of Retail Sales Gavin English then jointly presented honorees Shirley and Seymour Lehrer with the inaugural Key to Success Award for their vision, leadership, and investments at the Music Academy of the West.