NYAC’s largest fundraiser and musical event is the Benefit Concert, which dates back to 1934. Its purpose is to raise money for local, national, and international charities while strengthening NYAC’s commitment to supporting music and performers. The concert has grown to feature world-famous artists performing exciting and challenging repertoire.
Performers of note have included:
- Mary Louise Boehm, piano, and Kees Kooper, SAI Distinguished Members
- James Cohn, composer, National Arts Associate
- Mirian Conti, piano, National Arts Associate
- Lenora Zenzalai Helm, vocal jazz
NYAC was awarded the Annelle Chandler McAdams Community Service Award for two distinct concerts. In 2006, the concert featured Member Laureate Claudia Waite, a frequent soloist at the Metropolitan opera. In 2011, the concert featured a piano recital of Member Laureate Emily White, who is a faculty member at the Juilliard School, Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts, and Lucy Moses School, as well as a private instructor. Both Ms. Waite and Ms. White have performed all over the world.