A Night to Remember: Celebrating 50 Years of Music Excellence
The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University recently marked a major milestone – its 50th anniversary. The celebration was a grand affair, with a black-tie gala that drew in a crowd of music lovers and alumni from across the country. The event was a testament to the school’s rich history and its continued commitment to excellence in music education.
A Night of Music and Reunion
The evening began with a reception in the Grand Foyer, followed by a concert in Stude Concert Hall. The Shepherd School Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya, delivered a powerful performance that included works by Bernstein, Tchaikovsky, and a new composition by faculty member Pierre Jalbert. The concert also featured a special appearance by Grammy-winning mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke, a Shepherd School alumna.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
The gala was not just a celebration of the school’s past achievements, but also a look towards the future. Dean Matthew Loden took the stage to reflect on the school’s journey and honor Anne Duncan, the gala’s honoree. He also announced a surprise gift – the Stude Concert Hall stage will now be named the Larry Rachleff Orchestra Stage, thanks to a generous donation from Dot and Rick Nelson.
A Night of Fine Dining and Music
The evening continued with a dinner at the Brockman Hall for Opera, which was transformed into an opulent dining hall for the occasion. Guests enjoyed a exquisite meal, paired with fine wines and capped with a champagne toast. The dinner was punctuated by surprise pop-up performances from Shepherd students, including a stunning rendition of Glitter and Be Gay.
A Successful Fundraiser
The gala was co-chaired by Isabel and Danny David, Anne and Albert Chao, with Shawn Stephens and Jim Jordan serving as underwriter chairs. The event raised an impressive $1.5 million to support the school’s mission, with 340 guests in attendance.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The gala drew in a who’s who of Houston’s music and social scene, including Margaret Alkek Williams, James and Molly Crownover, Douglas and Cathryn Selman, and many more. Also in attendance were former deans Larry Livingston and Robert Yekovich, as well as a proud alum who was overheard humming the Indiana Jones theme on the way home.
Conclusion
The 50th anniversary gala of the Shepherd School of Music was a night to remember, with its perfect blend of music, fine dining, and celebration. The event was a testament to the school’s enduring legacy and its continued commitment to excellence in music education. As the school looks towards the future, it’s clear that its next 50 years will be just as bright and melodious as its first.
