Celebrating Excellence: Young Concert Artists’ 63rd Annual Gala Honors Damian Woetzel

Updated posts 2026

The prestigious Young Concert Artists (YCA) hosted its 63rd annual gala, a splendid event that honored Damian Woetzel, the President of The Juilliard School and Artistic Director of the Vail Dance Festival. The gala was expertly chaired by Ann Ziff, who also serves as the Chairman of The Metropolitan Opera, showcasing a night of culture, elegance, and dedication to the arts.

During this remarkable evening, YCA celebrated its long-standing tradition of nurturing brilliant young talents. “For 63 years, YCA has invested in the next generation of extraordinary musicians, launching the careers of nearly 300 artists,” said YCA President Daniel Kellogg. Alumni from both YCA and Juilliard, such as Emanuel Ax, Julia Bullock, and Jeremy Denk, are testament to the impactful collaboration between the two institutions in shaping the future of music and performance arts.

Young Concert Artists’ 63rd Annual Gala honoring Damian Woetzel at Jazz at Lincoln Center, 4/4/2024. Photo by Chris Lee

The event was also graced by influential figures such as honorary chairs Deborah Borda, Anne Akiko Meyers, and choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, alongside a host of esteemed co-chairs including Ellen Marcus and Annaliese Soros. The benefit committee played a crucial role in the gala’s success, reflecting the community’s collective support for the arts.

Paul Sekhri, YCA Chairman, expressed his deep appreciation for Gala Chair Ann Ziff, highlighting her decade-long commitment and friendship. “It is especially meaningful to thank her for chairing our gala tonight,” Sekhri noted, also acknowledging YCA founder Susan Wadsworth for her foundational role in the organization.

Young Concert Artists’ 63rd Annual Gala honoring Damian Woetzel at Jazz at Lincoln Center, 4/4/2024. Photo by Chris Lee

The organisation’s model explains why an evening like this one matters more than the sum raised. YCA auditions musicians without charging entry fees and, for those selected, provides management rather than prize money — booking concerts, arranging recordings, handling publicity for artists at the point where talent alone does not yet generate work. That gap, between conservatory graduation and a sustainable performing career, is where most classical musicians are lost, and it is the hardest part to fund because nothing about it photographs well. Nearly

300 careers over six decades is a long record for a service that most audiences never see.

The gala featured performances by a lineup of distinguished YCA musicians and alumni, including pianist Jeremy Denk, cellist Zlatomir Fung, and violinist Anne Akiko Meyers. The evening’s performances culminated in a spirited dinner at the Appel room, which boasts panoramic views of Central Park, enhancing the night’s atmosphere.

Significantly, the gala succeeded in raising over 1.2 million dollars, demonstrating the strong support from over 300 black-tie guests, including prominent figures from various sectors. The funds raised will further empower YCA to continue its mission of supporting young artists and enriching the cultural landscape.

Young Concert Artists’ annual gala not only honored an individual’s contributions to the arts but also celebrated the enduring legacy and future of musical excellence. As the arts community looks forward to future endeavors, events like these underscore the vital role of patronage and collaboration in sustaining the vibrancy of the cultural world.