White Plains Board VP and Hawthorne Student Set to Shine at Fundraising Event
WHITE PLAINS — On June 26, the Music Conservatory of Westchester will hold a star-studded awards dinner following its 16th Annual Golf & Tennis Classic (16th Annual Golf and Tennis Classic) featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icon Darlene Love and Academy Award-nominated actor Chazz Palminteri. Yet, it’s two members within the not-for-profit community music school’s community who arguably might be the biggest stars of the show.
Laurence Keiser, who joined the Conservatory’s board in 2000 and currently serves as its Vice President, will receive the White Plains’ organization’s Distinguished Leadership Award for his years of service. “He is incredibly generous in every way, supporting our mission, serving as Vice President, and connecting us to important community resources,” Jean Newton, the organization’s executive director, said.
“My philosophy may differ from that of some of my fellow board members, but we respect each other’s positions for the good of the Conservatory. I greatly respect the talents and dedication of those with whom I work,” Keiser said. And while he’s “humbled” by receiving the honor, the White Plains resident stressed.
“I don’t do what I do for recognition. I do it out of love of music and this institution.” Speaking of a love of music, Alice Cabral of Hawthorne will also have a big night on June 26. The 12-year-old voice student has shared her love of music with the Conservatory, and has honed her skills there since 2013. She will be the first recipient of the Darlene Love Vocal Scholarship that evening.
“Our Scholarship Program breaks down financial barriers, giving every student a chance to fulfill their musical dreams,” Newton said. “Alice exemplifies this – she’s a dedicated, talented student and a wonderful young person. We’re so proud of her.” So is Alice’s mom Elsa Cabral.
“It is an honor and a privilege to receive this scholarship under the name of Darlene Love. Alice is a very capable girl, she is persistent and responsible. I always tell her that with hard work, she can make her dreams come true.” She continued, “I extend my thanks to the Music Conservatory. Thank you very much for believing in her and giving her this great opportunity.”
Chazz-Gianna-Palminteri
Keiser and Cabral are part of a big evening for the Conservatory. Love will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for her career in the arts. Chazz and wife Gianna will receive the Arts Achievement and Community Leadership Award for their extensive film and theatre credits, charitable work, and arts advocacy. Performances by Tony-celebrated artists will follow the awards ceremony. Two-time Tony nominee Constantine Maroulis will emcee and perform along with Tony nominees Robert Cuccioli and Mary Bridget Davies. Tony winner Adriane Lenox will also perform. Proceeds from the event will benefit the school’s Music Therapy Institute, which provides music programs for those with special needs, its Healing Our Heroes program which provides music therapy for returning military veterans, and its Scholarship program for low-income students.
To purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit www.mcwevents.org For more information or to schedule an interview with any of the honorees or performers, please contact Noah or Andrew at Endless Staircase at staircaseconsulting@gmail.com.
