The opulent ballroom showcasing the elegance of the Philharmonic Ball in Orange County.
On March 9, the Philharmonic Society hosted the inaugural Philharmonic Ball in Orange County, raising $1.6 million for arts programs and honoring philanthropic pioneers. The event featured a stunning performance by the Vienna Philharmonic and celebrated the impact of music education in the community. The evening combined luxury, culture, and generosity, exemplifying the commitment of the community towards the arts.
On March 9, the vibrant city of Orange County was alive with culture and philanthropy as the Philharmonic Society hosted its inaugural Philharmonic Ball at The Westin South Coast Plaza. This much-anticipated event was not just an extravagant affair; it marked a significant milestone—the kickoff of the prestigious Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra residency.
Put on your best black-tie attire, because this was an evening that sparkled! Attendees came together, raising a remarkable $1.6 million to fund artistic programs and elevate youth music education throughout the region. With these funds, the Strike Up the Band program will thrive, providing schools with essential musical instruments and teaching materials. What a wonderful way to ensure that music reaches the hands of eager young learners!
The night was also a tribute to the spirit of giving. Philanthropists Maria Manetti Shrem and Elizabeth Segerstrom were recognized with the California Performing Arts Visionary Award for their outstanding contributions to the arts. Their dedication has significantly impacted the music scene, including sponsoring the recent tour of the Vienna Philharmonic that delighted audiences in both Orange County and Berkeley.
The support didn’t stop there! Other charitable organizations such as the Donna L. Kendall Foundation and the Shanbrom Family Foundation were celebrated for their commitment to fostering the arts.
The festivities commenced with an exquisite concert at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Guests were treated to an awe-inspiring performance by the Vienna Philharmonic, led by the talented conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin. The program included magnificent pieces such as Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Richard Strauss’ captivating tone poem Ein Heldenleben. It was an experience that transported attendees through the notes of legendary composers.
After soaking in the symphonic serenity, guests moved to The Westin for a delightful cocktail reception. The venue was bedecked with beautiful artwork panels showcasing Vienna’s Musikverein, all accented with luxurious gold velvet touches that created an enchanting atmosphere.
Dinners were served in a ballroom inspired by the works of Gustav Klimt, which added a touch of artistic flair to the evening. It was more than just dining; guests also enjoyed remarkable performances from the Orange County Youth Symphony and ballet dancers from the American Ballet Theatre.
The evening was packed with excitement! Following a three-course dinner, guests participated in a Fund-a-Need program that contributed directly to the initiative’s goals, a thrilling live auction with enticing items, and plenty of dancing with tunes provided by the Chris Norton Band.
Leading the charge were honorary chairs Maria Manetti Shrem and Elizabeth Segerstrom, alongside event chair Donna L. Kendall. The event committee comprised passionate individuals including John W. Benecke, Lauren Claus, Jean Felder, and Margaret Gates, who all worked tirelessly to bring this splendid evening to life. Thanks to additional supportive figures like Britt Meyer and Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, the event was a true testament to community spirit.
As part of its core mission, the Philharmonic Society is dedicated to elevating music education and ensuring accessibility for all students, impacting over 100,000 children each year with its various initiatives. With the funds raised at the Philharmonic Ball, the future of music education looks bright and fruitful.
This inaugural event was not just a night of fun; it was a powerful reminder of the impact that art can have on our communities. Orange County is certainly a city that knows how to celebrate music, creativity, and generosity!
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