Clarion Music Society Gala to Feature Liz Callaway and More

The Clarion Music Society announced their 7th Annual Masked Gala, which will take place in New York City on April 18, 2018 at the JW Marriott Essex House New York. This annual celebration, award presentation and fundraising event supports all of Clarion's programs, including its concert series, recording, touring and music education programs.

The evening will feature Mistress of Ceremonies Liz Callaway, Tony nominee and Emmy Award-winning actress, singer and recording artist.

Guests who bring an additional touch of Broadway to the evening include Joseph P. Benincasa, President & CEO of The Actors Fund, www.actorsfund.org . The evening's program will present a stunning array of LIVE auction items of everything from exotic tropical island vacations, to priceless experiences on Broadway and at the opera.

The gala will honor three individuals for their enhancement of Cultural Heritage and for Civic and Cultural Leadership. This year's honorees are:

• Joseph Cozza, Area Catering Sales Director, Marriott International, who will receive the Clarion Music Society Award for Civic and Cultural Leadership;
• Alex and Katya Lukianov, Founders of the PaTRAM Institute, who will receive the Clarion Cultural Heritage Award.

The Clarion Orchestra and The Clarion Choir, under the artistic direction of Conductor Steven Fox, is one of the most highly regarded period-instrument orchestras and professional vocal ensembles in the country. The orchestra, founded in 1957 is a prominent and innovative force on the international music scene. The GRAMMY nominated Clarion Choir, established in 2006 has received great praise for their performances at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Brooklyn Academy Of Music and the acclaimed concert halls of St. Petersburg, Moscow and London.

"We are thrilled to announce our Annual Masked Gala and distinguished honorees," said Christine Stonbely, President of the Clarion Music Society Board of Directors. "This is a greatly anticipated event which honors the beauty of period music played on period instruments, now and for many years to come."

ABOUT THE HONOREES:

Joseph Cozza has an extensive and distinguished career in the hospitality industry. A Marriott International executive for over 30 years, he currently serves as Area Catering Sales Director for New York, as part of the Global Sales Organization. Joe is an active member of the hospitality industry and various philanthropic organizations. He is founder and former president of the New York Chapter of the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE). Over his career, he has mentored individuals and organizations on personal career growth and professional growth overall.

Alex and Katya Lukianov, themselves accomplished singers, have produced Broadway and West End shows, winning a Tony Award for best musical, for Memphis. However, their love for sacred choral music and its proliferation is their greatest passion. They founded the Patriarch Tikhon Russian-American Music Institute (PaTRAM) to record unique high quality music from special venues, facilitate live performances, and train singers and conductors. The Lukianovs have also been collaborating with Clarion on a variety of new projects.

ABOUT THE CLARION MUSIC SOCIETY MASKED GALA: April 18, 2018, 6:30 Cocktail Reception followed by 7:30pm Dinner and Awards Presentation. Musical performances by Clarion musicians and guest soloists' JW Marriott Essex House New York/ 160 Central Park South

For tickets, go to: www.clarionsociety.org

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos