On Wednesday, February 6th, Dr. Sanford L. and Beatrice Ziff will join Néstor Rodriguez, the newly appointed President of Classical South Florida to honor some individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the arts in South Florida. Once again, the event will take place at the historic Biltmore Hotel, at 1200 Anastasia Avenue in Coral Gables.
John Richard, President and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center; R. Kirk Landon, considered an icon among South Florida philanthropists; Julia D. and Shelton G. Berg, Trish and Dan Bell, Alicia Celorio and the internationally renowned Symphony of the Americas under the baton of Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese, celebrating their 25th Anniversary, will be honored.
Guests will enjoy lunch, complemented by a solo piano program by Shelly Berg, Dean of the Frost School of Music at UM. He will perform music by Bach, Chopin, Debussy and Gershwin – and improvise to each – as part of the performance. In attendance will be some past honorees.
The event helps mark the 5th Anniversary of 89.7 FM. Jason Hughes, longtime Program Director and recently appointed General Manager noted that over the past five years, CSF has grown dramatically, pointing out that there are now three stations dedicated to broadcasting classical music, including their newest addition, 88.7 FM in Fort Myers/Naples. “Over the past five years, membership in CSF has grown to well over 12,000 with average weekly listenership topping 300,000!”
“Dr. Ziff is legendary for his wide ranging philanthropy,” said Néstor Rodriguez. “He demonstrated his love and commitment for classical music and commitment to the success of Classical South Florida 89.7 with his gift of a million dollars three years ago. It was a crucial time for our young member-supported radio station and his financial support provided us with a strong foundation. His on-going support has encouraged others to make contributions.”
An important component of the funding for CSF is the Leadership Circle. Leadership Circle members provide consistent and strong support that is instrumental in CSF being able to provide a robust classical music service. “Throughout the year, Leadership Circle members have the opportunity to attend a variety of unique programs which provide opportunities to socialize with classical music and arts lovers and meet some of the music world’s most outstanding luminaries”. said Dr. Claire Crawford, a Major Gifts Officer with CSF. Individual tickets are $50.00 per person and are complimentary to Leadership Circle members. Call Rob Davis at (561) 961-9004 or Dr. Claire Crawford at (954) 522-8755.Visit www.classicalsouthflorida.publicradio.org
