Gala 2019: Harmony Project Celebrates 18 Years of Achievement

Harmony Project’s annual gala, Celebrating 18 Years of Achievement, is a gathering of our most dedicated supporters featuring a luncheon and performances by Harmony Project students from across Los Angeles. This year's luncheon took place Sunday, May 5, 2019 at the Skirball Cultural Center.

Honoring Barbara and Arnold Price.

We are thrilled to recognize Barbara and Arnold Price with the Banchik Humanitarian Award for their incredible, continued support of our programming.

“It is with the deepest gratitude that we thank our family and friends and all of you here for your support of the amazing young people who have put so much effort into striving for a better future. We are humbled to receive this honor, and we accept it on their behalf.“

- Barbara and Arnold Price, 2019 Honorees

Celebrating musical excellence.

The luncheon featured performances from Harmony Project’s most advanced ensembles and orchestras. Our Hollywood Jazz Band and EXPO Center / YOLA String Trio opened the event’s indoor and outdoor spaces as guests filled the venue. They were followed by selections from the Harmony Project Honor Orchestra, who rehearsed for the gala relentlessly at our recent Spring Seminario. After lunch, our Foshay Jazz Band closed the event with help from special guests Jade Elliott on saxophone and vocalist Sophia Wackerman.

From students to leaders.

This year, over 60 graduating high school seniors will receive Harmony Project college scholarships. Representing the Class of 2019, Alex Calderon-Perez reflected on his growth as a Harmony Project mentor, and Liliana Morales expressed her optimism for change in welcoming Harmony Project’s newest site to her home town of La Habra, CA.

Year after year, our luncheon has served as a pivotal convening point in showcasing what Harmony Project is made of and deepening our commitment to accessible music education. We are deeply thankful to have such a robust community of supporters championing our mission by our side. Thank you!

Watch full performances from this year’s luncheon below.