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The Philadelphia Orchestra presented the C. Hartman Kuhn Award to Acting Associate Principal Cello Yumi Kendall at a special ceremony during its subscription concert on May 4, 2013. Philadelphia Orchestra Association Board Chairman Richard B. Worley presented the Award, which was established in 1941 and named for a charter member of the Board of Directors who served from 1901 to 1933. The Award is given annually to “the member of The Philadelphia Orchestra who has shown ability and enterprise of such character as to enhance the standard and the reputation of The Philadelphia Orchestra.” The awardee is chosen by the music director, and in his remarks Mr. Worley acknowledged the many ways that Yumi provides unwavering support to the organization. A member of the Orchestra since 2004, she “has brought an exuberant spirit to her work with staff, Board Members, fellow musicians, and volunteers. Time and again, she has stepped up to engage with our patrons and donors at concerts and events throughout the community. She has served on the Orchestra’s Education, Communications, and China committees. She has provided inspiration for, and helped organize, our recent Cello Play-In, and is involved in community engagement activities here in Philadelphia, in Vail and Saratoga during the summer, and in our China Residency.”

Also at the May 4 concert, Volunteer Committees President Stephanie Brandow presented Kiyoko Takeuti, the Orchestra’s pianist since 1988, with a watch recognizing 25 years of service. Funded by the Volunteer Committees, this award has been given annually since 1928.

Congratulations to them both!