Bloomingdale School Of Music Raises Over $50,000

On Thursday, April 19th, the clouds cleared and the festive sounds of jazz filled the beautifully lit Broadway Presbyterian Church setting the tone for the nonprofit Bloomingdale School of Music's (BSM) annual scholarship benefit, Notes From 108th Street hosted by Ken Fischer, President Emeritus University Musical Society. The event honored Alexander Bernstein and the nonprofit Artful Learning, founded by Leonard Bernstein. Notes From 108th Street coincided with the worldwide celebration of Leonard Bernstein's 100th birthday, and this year's event featured the music of this legendary composer, conductor, educator, cultural ambassador, and humanitarian performed by BSM students and faculty.

A highlight of Notes from 108th Street were excerpts of "Leonard Bernstein: 100th Anniversary with Alexander Bernstein," Alexander's poignant sharing of personal remembrances of his father along with video and photos of individuals immortalized by four of his father's "Anniversaries for Piano" performed by Bloomingdale Faculty and students. Student Compositions and finale with "Make Our Garden Grow" from Candide delighted the audience. Two hundred guests were joined by NYS Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell, City Council members Helen Rosenthal and Mark Levine. Also present were Honorary Benefit Committee members: Co-Chairs Ken and Penny Fischer, Tania Leon, Jon Deak, Ted Wiprud, Evangeline Benedetti and David Finckel. Alexander Bernstein was presented with a proclamation from Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer in recognition of his tremendous contributions to music and arts education.

"Notes From 108th Street" successfully raised $57,000 in much needed funds which will support student scholarships and financial aid. Founded in 1964, Bloomingdale School of Music is all about access, providing outstanding music instruction to anyone without regard to ability or financial means. More than 20% of Bloomingdale's student body receives scholarship assistance annually. For more information visit www.bsmny.com

Photo: Honorary Benefit Committee Members: Jon Deak, composer and founder and director of NY Philharmonic's Very Young Composers Program, Ted Wiprud, Former Education Director, NY Philharmonic with guest Judith Insell, Program Director, Bronx Arts Ensemble

Pictured: Bloomingdale School of Music Executive Director Erika Floreska with NYS Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell, City Council Members Helen Rosenthal and Mark Levine with event honoree Alexander Bernstein. Photo credit: Nilsa LaSalle