New York throws gala for Deborah Borda
NewsNew York’s Young Concert Artists organisation (YCA) has announced a gala concert to honour Deborah Borda, outgoing President and CEO of the New York Philharmonic.
The event will take place on Monday, May 8 at Jazz at Lincoln Center.
We cannot remember any past manager of a New York Phil who has been honoured by a talent-nurturing org.
Quotes:
“We are thrilled to honor Deborah Borda at our Gala this year. Deborah’s extraordinary legacy has created a strong future for young musicians. Through the renovation of Geffen Hall, the creation of Disney Hall, and Deborah’s innovative leadership at two of the most important US orchestras, she has changed the landscape of classical music for the better. She has invested heavily in the brilliant young musicians we serve at YCA, and we are delighted to celebrate her work.” Daniel Kellogg, YCA President
“Deborah epitomizes all that is wonderful in music and the arts, and has been a shining star in the musical firmament of New York City and the world. We could not be more excited to honor Deborah, and thank her for all she has done for many, world-class young artists included.” Paul Sekhri, YCA Chairman of the Board of Directors
“For 60 years, Young Concert Artists has enriched the musical world by creating contexts in which gifted young musicians can develop their art. YCA has helped cultivate the careers of so many of today’s leading performers, including members of the New York Philharmonic, and its impact will only grow with Paul Sekhri’ s arrival as a visionary new Chair. It is a profound honor to be recognized by such a forward-looking organization, especially since we share a commitment to amplifying the voices of emerging musicians and, through such action, empowering the future of our artform.” Deborah Borda, CEO of the New York Philharmonic, and YCA Gala Honoree
She deserves it.
Heard the new hall tonight. It’s a fantastic improvement!
Other than a post a few days ago of a photo that showed construction employees and their families in the revamped Geffen Hall, Slippeddisc has totally ignored Lincoln Center’s reborn concert venue & Borda’s role in helping it. The NY Times, Financial Times, London Times, etc, have covered it. But SD, so far, has ignored the story. How come?
1. It is really too soon to adequately judge the acoustics. I was at the first night, and the rather bombastic pieces were not the ones by which to measure acoustic success.
2. There is no denying Ms. Borda’s leadership for this project–and for that she deserves ample credit and gratitude–but she did not design or construct the new hall. Credit should go to an army of engineers, artisans, carpenters and other construction professionals whose expertise renovated a much-maligned building.
Kudos to all.
This is the annual YCA Gala that Ms. Borda will be recognized as the featured guest, as they have honored many champions of the arts in the past. This is not a gala to solely to honor Ms. Borda.
Another gala for rich people to promenade while the vast majority of NY artists live in abject poverty.
Here’s the truth about galas, and this came from a friend who was planning one at a foundation: they have to find a “celebrity” who will sell seats to friends and colleagues, who will book a table or more, and turn over their entire contact list. In return, they get what appears to be a major prize or award for their accomplishments. Borda was apparently very cooperative. Rather like, you can get honored by Who’s Who, if you pay them enough money for the honor.