THE DESERT SYMPHONY ANNOUNCES ITS 27TH ANNIVERSARY GALA
FEATURING SINGER, SONGWRITER, PIANIST, AND AUTHOR NEIL SEDAKA
IN CONCERT WITH THE DESERT SYMPHONY
SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2016 AT THE McCALLUM THEATRE
HONOREE HAROLD MATZNER TO RECEIVE AMADEUS AWARD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE . . . April 1, 2016. . . PALM DESERT, CA. -- Marilyn Benachowski, Co-founder of The Desert Symphony along with President of the Board, Nancy Tapick, have announced plans for their exciting 27th Anniversary Gala, scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 9, 2016 at The McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert at 8:00 p.m. 

“We are thrilled to announce the legendary and world-renowned Singer/Songwriter Neil Sedaka, who will be performing in concert with our wonderful and dedicated Desert Symphony musicians,” stated Nancy Tapick.  “And we are thrilled to be honoring the Valley’s own Harold Matzner, who will be presented with our Amadeus Award, honoring the memory of Maestro Benachowski’s favorite composer, the renowned Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  This Award, created by The Desert Symphony,  recognizes extraordinary philanthropy and dedication to the musical arts, a description which truly fits Harold Matzner.   Previous recipients of the Amadeus Award have included Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Del Sharbutt, Jack Jones, John Tesh,Ted Giatas, and Frankie Randall,” Tapick continued.

Singer, Songwriter, Pianist, and Author are just a few of the titles that can be used to describe performer Neil Sedaka.  Classically trained at The Juilliard School of Music in New York, his impressive 60 year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the 50’s, an accomplished songwriter for himself and other artists in the 60’s, a superstar in the 70’s, and remaining a constant force in writing and performing presently.  This is all thanks to the countless songs Sedaka has written, performed, and produced that continue to inspire artists and audiences around the world.

Sedaka has received numerous accolades in his tenure as a singer/songwriter, including an induction into THE SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME in 1984, in addition to being the recipient of their prestigious SAMMY CAHN AWARD in 2004.  Sedaka has also received a star on the HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME.  With over sixty million records sold, Sedaka is the genius and voice behind such timeless classics as “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do,” Laughter In The Rain,” Calendar Girl,” “Oh, Carol!”, and “Love Will Keep Us Together,” “Bad Blood,” and “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen,” among many others.

In addition to composing, performing, and a consistent international touring schedule, Sedaka never rests on his laurels.  He has written and recorded his first symphonic piece and a piano concerto, which are being performed by orchestras all around the world.  He is also currently working on a Broadway show based on his life.  All of these ventures continue to add to his legend and legacy – that of a consummate musician, an extraordinary vocalist, and an ageless songwriting talent. 

INDIVIDUAL, as well as CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS are now available for this special evening with Neil Sedaka performing with Music Director Gary Berkson and The Desert Symphony.  Sponsorships range from $ 50,000 to $ 5,000, which includes dinner in The McCallum Theatre’s exclusive Founders Room, with Lavender Bistro catering.  Included in these sponsorships will be a post-concert VIP party in The McCallum Theatre’s Founders Room to personally meet Neil Sedaka.    For sponsorship information please call Sydne at The Desert Symphony office at 760- 773-5988 or Nancy Tapick at 760-895-8747.

Gala Premier Dinner and Concert Packages for the April 9th Gala are available now, and will once again include an elegant pre-concert dinner at Cuistot and Wally’s, two of the Valley’s finest restaurants.   These Gala tickets are priced at $ 1,000 for two at your choice of restaurant plus two premium show seats.  Single Gala tickets are priced at $ 500 for one person at a restaurant of your choice plus one premium show seat.   These premium tickets are available by calling either Sydne at The Desert Symphony office at 760-773-5988 or at www.DesertSymphony.org , or Nancy Tapick at 760-895-8747.

Single tickets (without dinner) will be $ 202, $ 127, and $ 102 and can be purchased now by calling The McCallum Theatre Box Office at 760-340-ARTS or by visiting www.McCallumTheatre.com      

THE DESERT SYMPHONY

Founded in 1989, The Desert Symphony is comprised of 65 of the best chamber musicians, virtuoso soloists, principal players, and recording artists hand picked from Southern California’s major orchestras.  Selected for their individual, as well as ensemble skills, these wonderful symphony members assure desert fans of pop, and other musical genres the finest possible concert experience every season.

The Desert Symphony’s mission is to enhance the cultural life of the people of the desert cities, by providing a series of concerts and special events and programs of musical and artistic excellence that entertain, educate, and engage the audience.

The Desert Symphony is dedicated to providing FREE youth concerts for the musical enrichment of the Coachella Valley’s children.