Warner Music Group (WMG) and the acclaimed Warner Records artist Josh Groban were celebrated on Wednesday, April 2, during the prestigious annual gala of the Harmony Program. This event took place at The Altman Building, located in the vibrant Flatiron district of New York City, highlighting the importance of music education and community engagement.
The gala was a remarkable success, raising nearly $800,000 to further the Harmony Program’s mission of providing essential music education to underserved communities throughout New York City. The event was expertly hosted by CBS Mornings Plus’ Adriana Diaz, and featured captivating live performances by Josh Groban alongside talented students from the Harmony Program, showcasing the transformative power of music.
Kevin Gore, who serves as WMG’s president of global catalog and is also a dedicated board member of the Harmony Program, graciously accepted the honor on behalf of WMG. He emphasized that, “The Harmony Program’s work is not simply about improving access to music education; it’s about leveraging the power of music to foster collaboration and build community. In today’s world, it is crucial for us all to ensure that artistic expression continues to thrive, enabling organizations like the Harmony Program to cultivate the next generation of leaders, dreamers, and creators in the arts. It is truly an honor to be recognized by such a vital and impactful organization within our community.”
On stage, Josh Groban passionately stated, “The work of the Harmony Program holds immense significance as it is fundamentally transforming the perspectives of these young individuals. In a world that often feels divided and cynical, arts education reveals the beauty of our shared human experiences and, more importantly, celebrates the unique differences that enrich our communities. This recognition is incredibly meaningful to me and holds a special place in my heart.”
At 44 years old, Josh Groban is not only a celebrated performer but also a passionate advocate for arts education and philanthropy. In 2011, he founded the Find Your Light Foundation, which aims to enhance the lives of young people by promoting arts education, cultural awareness, and personal growth. Groban’s impressive accolades include five Grammy nominations, two Tony nominations, and two Primetime Emmy nominations, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the music industry.
“Warner Music Group has played an invaluable role in supporting the Harmony Program and its students for over ten years,” stated Anne Fitzgibbon, the founder and executive director of the Harmony Program. “In addition to their generous financial contributions, WMG has offered our students invaluable career mentorship, industry internships, and unforgettable collaborative performances with world-renowned artists such as Joyce DiDonato, Chris Thile, and Josh Groban. They exemplify the profound impact of corporate philanthropy in inspiring young individuals and, by extension, uplifting their broader communities.”
The Harmony Program is a dedicated non-profit organization committed to providing children from underserved communities with complimentary instruments, intensive music instruction, orchestral training, and access to a diverse array of cultural experiences. This innovative model also addresses the pressing shortage of well-trained music teachers by equipping accomplished musicians with the skills necessary to teach in public schools and community centers across New York City.
