THE MOORES SOCIETY SHAPES FUTURE STARS BY TRANSFORMING ASPIRING YOUNG MUSICIANS INTO WORLD-CLASS TALENTS
Annual Luncheon surpasses $50,000 in contributions, directing support to special programs and student scholarships at the Moores School of Music
The University of Houston's Moores School of Music recently hosted its annual Moores Society Luncheon, an elegant convergence of artistry and philanthropy. Set within the distinguished Moores Opera House lobby, the event unfolded with sincere expressions of appreciation, distinguished honors, and captivating performances.
These elements were dedicated to formally acknowledging the Moores Society for their impactful contributions to the Moores School of Music. Notably, the luncheon achieved a significant milestone by raising over $50,000 in gifts and donations.
The Moores Society luncheon showcases the impact of the specialized programs and opportunities made available to students, such as the Immanuel and Helen Olshan Texas Music Festival, Formosa Quartet and the Concerto Competition.
For more than three decades, this festival has provided intensive summer training to young musicians, paving the way for their future careers in music. The program encompasses diverse performances across orchestral, chamber music, jazz, vocal, and keyboard genres. Additionally, participating musicians have the opportunity to be a part of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell-Ima Hogg Young Artist Competition, a collaboration between the University of Houston and the Houston Symphony.
Co-chairs Elia Gabbanelli (left) and Ann Ayre (right)
Co-chairs Elia Gabbanelli (left) and Ann Ayre (right)
Guided by the inspiring and thoughtful leadership of co-chairs Ann Ayre and Elia Gabbanelli, the Moores Society has played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the Moores School of Music. Through the efforts of Ayre and Gabbanelli, along with the philanthropic contributions of the Moores Society, over half of the students at the Moores School of Music enjoy the invaluable support of merit scholarships.
In addition to its pivotal role in scholarship support, the Moores Society stands as a driving force propelling the Moores School of Music to national acclaim. This dynamic effort not only enhances the school's prestige but also broadens its influence, captivating a diverse audience that includes prospective students and seasoned artists alike. Notably, the Quartet-in-Residence, Formosa Quartet, exemplifies this commitment by providing students with unparalleled learning experiences, allowing them to train and glean insights from world-class artists and distinguished educators.
Beyond attracting renowned artists, the Moores School of Music distinguishes itself by providing students with immersive, career-centered experiences through experiential learning opportunities thanks to the Moores Societies efforts. A shining example is the Concerto Competition, which not only hones their artistic skills but also prepares them for the dynamic challenges of the professional music industry, setting the stage for a successful and fulfilling career.
Formosa Quartet
Formosa Quartet
Concerto winner Yuhao Li
Concerto winner Yuhao Li
Concerto winner Sean Holshauser
Concerto winner Sean Holshauser
This dedication to fostering talent was showcased during the luncheon, featuring captivating performances by the Formosa Quartet and Concerto Competition winners Yuhao Li (violin) and Sean Holshauser (voice). Accompanied by pianists Scott Holshauser and Timothy Hester.
Robert Lietzow (left), Sharon Lietzow (right)
Robert Lietzow (left), Sharon Lietzow (right)
The event also included a special celebration honoring Sharon and Robert Lietzow and Franz Anton Krager. Sharon and Robert Lietzow were celebrated for their remarkable contributions to music education and support for the Moores School of Music, including the sponsorship of the inaugural Sharon Ley Lietzow Piano Series at the Texas Music Festival in 2022. Franz Anton Krager, Monzer Adeeb and Adeeba Hourani Endowed Chair, Director of Orchestras and Orchestral Studies, was recognized for his outstanding international contributions and his 31-year commitment to elevating the Moores School of Music's orchestral program to international prominence.
Brian Kai Chin (left), Franz Anton Krager (right)
Brian Kai Chin (left), Franz Anton Krager (right)
Attendees were gifted an advanced copy of "Morry the Moores Opera House Mouse," a children's book written by Sarah McClung and illustrated by alumni Dominique Francia. Generously underwritten by Connie Kwan-Wong of CKW Luxe Magazine and Jo Dee Wright, the book is now available at the Moores Opera House Box Office with the purchase of a $250 Moores Society Membership.
Morry the Moores Opera House Mouse children's book
Morry the Moores Opera House Mouse children's book
The Moores Society Fall Luncheon of 2023 was an ode to the arts, a celebration of unwavering dedication, and a philanthropic endeavor with far-reaching implications for the development of hundreds of future leaders in music. "All are welcome to join the Moores Society — we have several internal groups committed to providing support for specific programs like the Texas Music Festival, Mariachi, Opera, Choir, and any future endeavors we can imagine. The Moores School of Music stands as one of the premier music schools in the nation, and this distinction is made possible by our ability to provide meaningful scholarships to our students. Students receiving scholarships from philanthropic endowments exemplify the impact of the Moores Society in creating opportunities for musical excellence,” said Director Brian Kai Chin.
In the spirit of the Moores Society's dedication, we look forward to a future filled with enriched musical experiences and celebrations. Together, the Moores Society and the Moores School of Music forge a path toward a promising future, ensuring that the transformative power of music continues to inspire generations to come.
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