Bi-annual NYC Gala 2026
The Lang Lang International Music Foundation hosted its bi-annual fundraising gala on March 4th 2026 in New York City, celebrating the Foundation’s mission to inspire and cultivate the next generation of musicians through innovative programs and exceptional educational opportunities. The Lang Lang and Friends Fundraising Gala was a truly memorable evening celebrating music, philanthropy, and the transformative power of music.
The gala featured performances by world-renowned pianist, Lang Lang, violinist Ray Chen, jazz & pop vocalist Antonia Bennett, and singer-songwriter aron!. The gala also featured performances by the school choir from P.S. 214K Michael Friedsam School, who are part of the foundation’s Keys of Inspiration program, and seven students from around the world who are part of the foundation’s prestigious Young Scholars program: Seokyoung Hong, Ryan Huang, Anna Kesselman, Alexander Liu, Ryan Wang, Taige Wang, and Sencheng Zhang.
The music program showcased an exceptional lineup of performances. The repertoire ranged from the fiery energy of Brahms’ Hungarian Dance No. 5 to the virtuosic brilliance of William Bolcom’s The Serpent’s Kiss. Violinist Ray Chen delighted guests with a captivating performance of Waltzing Matilda, before joining Young Scholar Taige Wang for the lyrical beauty of Saint-Saëns’ The Swan.
A special moment came with a solo performance from Lang Lang, whose artistry and passion set the tone for the celebration. The program continued with vibrant excerpts from Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, arranged by Young Scholar Taige Wang, and concluded with an exuberant ensemble performance of Albert Lavignac’s Galop-Marche, bringing together a joyful finale from the LLIMF Young Scholars.
Throughout the evening, leaders in music were recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to music education. A special highlight of the night was the presentation of the Philanthropy Award to Steinway & Sons and John Paulson, recognizing their outstanding support and commitment to the arts and music education. The foundation’s Teacher of the Year, Jung Eun Hong of New York City Public Schools, was also honored for her dedication to nurturing musical growth, creativity, and resilience in her students.
The gala was not only a celebration of extraordinary music, but also a powerful reminder of the impact that generosity and community can have in opening doors for young people through music. The LLIMF is deeply grateful to the Gala supporters, artists, and guests for making the evening such a resounding success.
The LLIMF would like to thank all of its generous supporters from around the world for being an integral part of the Foundation Family, helping to provide access to world class music education opportunities for many future generations of musicians to come.
Photo Credit: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Lang Lang International Music Foundation
Thank you to our sponsors for their generous donations to support the gala evening:
