New York Philharmonic hosted its annual Spring Gala and Concert in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, honoring philanthropists Gurnee and Marjorie Hart and celebrating over 50 years of Mr. Hart’s service on the Board of Directors. The Orchestra opened the evening’s concert with a self-conducted performance of the Overture to Bernstein’s Candide. Vocalist Sutton Foster then sang a wide range of American songbook favorites and selections from her Broadway catalogue — enriched by witty and heartfelt reflections on career and motherhood — as her longtime collaborator, conductor Michael Rafter, led the Orchestra in his NY Phil debut.

Upon arrival, Gala guests were invited to walk the red carpet in the Karen and Richard LeFrak Lobby; they then proceeded upstairs to a cocktail reception on the Leon and Norma Hess Grand Promenade, where drinks and passed hors d’oeuvres were served. After the concert, guests returned to the Hess Grand Promenade for a three-course dinner, where tables were set with light green linens and pink floral centerpieces of peonies, ranunculuses, hydrangeas, and roses. NY Phil President & CEO Matías Tarnopolsky and NY Phil Board Co-Chairmen Oscar L. Tang and Peter W. May gave remarks at dinner in celebration of Gurnee Hart, the longest-serving Board Member in the Philharmonic’s history, and his wife, Marjorie Hart. Adam Z. Gerdts, NY Phil’s Senior Vice President of Philanthropy, delivered remarks on behalf of Mr. Hart.

The event was designed by DeJuan Stroud with lighting by Andrew Grant, and was catered by CxRA.  

In total, the Gala raised more than 1.8 million dollars for the Philharmonic and was attended by nearly 400 guests.

Image credit: Noam Galai/Getty for NY Philharmonic