New York, NY (March 11) — In an evening that reflected both artistic heritage and forward-looking ambition, Judith Pisar opened the doors of her art-filled Fifth Avenue loft to host an intimate gathering announcing the upcoming 65th Anniversary Gala of Young Concert Artists (YCA), scheduled for April 7.
A Legacy of Discovering Musical Talent
For more than six decades, Young Concert Artists has played a defining role in shaping the careers of classical music’s most promising performers. The organization has become one of the most respected launching platforms for emerging musicians, offering mentorship, performance opportunities, and global exposure at the critical early stages of their professional journeys.
YCA President Daniel Kellogg reflected on the institution’s legacy and the remarkable vision that built it.
“For 65 years we have been helping young musicians at a pivotal moment in their careers,” Kellogg said. “More than 350 musicians have come through the organization, receiving the life-changing opportunities that our community provides. This is thanks to our founder, Susan Wadsworth.”
Kellogg also shared a personal memory from the early days of his own career.
“When I first met you, as a brand new artist on the roster in 2002, I was quite intimidated because you are a legend and a formidable presence in our field, and because of what you have done with your life and your passion. It is a great responsibility and privilege to follow in your footsteps.”
Founder Susan Wadsworth Reflects on the Mission
Founder Susan Wadsworth, whose leadership shaped the organization for decades, reflected on the relationships that have defined her career.
“I have worked with great musicians, and those musicians have given me my life,” she said. “Everybody who has joined YCA has given us the power, the energy, and the artistry that allowed the organization to thrive.”
Judith Pisar on the Organization’s Early Days
Host Judith Pisar, a YCA board member and longtime friend of Wadsworth, offered a glimpse into the organization’s earliest days.
“As many of you know, Susan and I were just kids, barely the age of some of YCA’s youngest musicians, sharing an office when she set out to invest her time in discovering new music and new artists. At the time it was quite a revolution,” Pisar said.
“Decades later, Young Concert Artists remains a pioneering organization that continues to move the needle for classical music. The excitement of discovering new musicians each year is rejuvenating and brings hope at a time when we really need it. Art is the ultimate common language and a way to foster exchange and dialogue.”
Performances from Rising Classical Stars
The evening also showcased the very talent YCA exists to champion. Performances by YCA artists Chaeyoung Park on piano, Oliver Neubauer on violin, and Benett Tsai on cello offered guests a glimpse of the next generation of classical musicians.
Their program included Fritz Kreisler’s Viennese Rhapsodic Fantasietta, Claude Debussy’s Beau soir, David Popper’s Serenade, Op. 52, No. 2, Gabriel Fauré’s Papillon, Op. 77, and a vibrant performance of Maurice Ravel’s La valse.
Honoring Distinguished Alumni at the Gala
The upcoming 65th Anniversary Gala will honor two distinguished alumni whose careers reflect the enduring impact of the organization. Carter Brey, principal cello of the New York Philharmonic, and acclaimed pianist Anne-Marie McDermott, artistic director of the Bravo! Vail Music Festival, will be recognized for their achievements and continued contributions to the classical music world.
The gala is co-chaired by Eva-Marie and Ray Berry, Marijke and Lodewijk de Vink, Angela and William Haines, Andrew Hawkins and Lisa Walsh-Hawkins, Michael L. Lubin, Judith Pisar, Paul J. Sekhri and Mark Duvall Gude, and Cathy Stone.
An Evening of Cultural Supporters and Alumni
The kickoff soirée drew a distinguished gathering of supporters, artists, and cultural leaders. Among the attendees were board members Paul Gridley, Sharon Bowen Gurtler, Karen Lindquist, Michael L. Lubin, Judith Schlosser, and Ratna Subrahmanyam.
The evening also welcomed YCA alumni including Carter Brey, Courtenay Budd, Jennifer Johnson Cano, Ida Kavafian, Anne-Marie McDermott, Todd Palmer, Paul Shaw, and Pinchas Zukerman.
Additional guests included Lee Auchincloss, Eva-Marie and Ray Berry, Ilse Melamid, Liane Pei, Leah Pisar, Nathan Saint-Amand, Mary Tanner, and Stanley Shuman.
Continuing a Global Cultural Mission
Since its founding, Young Concert Artists has served as a vital force in discovering and nurturing exceptional musicians. Through the YCA Jacobs Fellowship, a three-year program awarded through the prestigious Susan Wadsworth International Auditions, artists receive professional management, global performance opportunities, and high-profile debut concerts in both New York City and Washington, DC.
Over the decades, the organization has helped shape the careers of many of the classical world’s most celebrated performers, including Emanuel Ax, Pinchas Zukerman, and Julia Bullock. By building networks, creating opportunities, and championing artistic excellence, YCA continues to ensure that the next generation of classical musicians reaches audiences around the world.
Gala Information
The Young Concert Artists 65th Anniversary Gala will take place on April 7 in New York City.
For more information about the organization, visit yca.org. For gala tickets and tables, visit yca.org/nygala.
