For 164 years and counting, the Academy of Music has been home to world-class performances and momentous life events for generations of Philadelphians and visitors from around the world.

On Thursday, May 13, 2021, join The Philadelphia Orchestra as we present our first interactive virtual gala to celebrate the Academy of Music’s glorious past and bright future.

Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor and Piano
Whoopi Goldberg Host
Ukee Washington Speaker
Renée Fleming Soprano
David Kim Violin
Dara Morales Violin
Burchard Tang Viola
Priscilla Lee Cello
Nathaniel West Double Bass
Sheryl Lee Ralph Speaker
Students from the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts

Program includes:

Mozart Third movement (Allegretto), from Piano Concerto No. 12
Fauré “Rêve d’amour”
Hahn “L'Heure exquise,” from Les Chansons grises
Montgomery Voodoo Dolls, for string quintet
Beethoven/arr. Warren “Joyful, Joyful,” from Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit
J. Strauss, Jr. “On the Beautiful Blue Danube” Waltz

In addition to segments featuring host Whoopi Goldberg and a special performance by renowned soprano Renée Fleming, Sheryl Lee Ralph will introduce a performance featuring talented students from The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. For decades, the Orchestra has worked with CAPA to support its mission of nurturing young creative talents. This presentation from the Academy of Music stage will celebrate the pipeline of gifted young artists in Philadelphia.

CBS 3 News Anchor Ukee Washington will turn the spotlight on the Academy’s place in Philadelphia’s artistic and civic life. Washington will lead viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour complete with glimpses of artifacts from the building’s storied history as the home of Broadway, opera, ballet, classical music, and so much more.

An alumnus of the Philadelphia Boys Choir who has performed at the Academy of Music, Washington will speak with Jeremy Allen, a current member of the Choir who has sung in several productions at the Academy. Jazz trombonist Robin Eubanks, whose graduation from Central High School took place at the Academy, will share his recollections of that day. Orchestra musicians will also share Academy memories with Washington.

Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to [email protected].

Co-Chairs

Caroline B. Rogers
Chair, Academy of Music Board of Trustees
Director, The Philadelphia Orchestra Association

Ralph W. Muller
Chair, Philadelphia Orchestra Board of Directors
Trustee, Academy of Music

Yannick Nézet-Séguin holds the Walter and Leonore Annenberg Chair.
Dara Morales holds the Anne M. Buxton Chair.