Monday, October 6th, 2025. Gustavino’s New York City. Manhattan —The evening opened beneath a radiant harvest moon shining over Gustavino’s in Manhattan, New York. I arrived, chauffeured (via uber) through the crisp autumn night, stepping into a courtyard alive with the spirit of the season—flowing fountains, lush greenery, and moonlit décor that whispered of renewal. At the entrance stood two ethereal figures, stilted masquerade performers draped in sculptural gowns and avian masks; their silhouettes paying tribute to the celestial muse of the evening.
After checking my coat, I ascended to the second floor, where the air shimmered with anticipation. The Harvest Moon Gala, hosted by the Denyce Graves Foundation, began with cocktails at six and I arrived, just in time for dinner at seven. The black-tie affair gathered luminaries from art, culture, media, and philanthropy, each united in purpose—to uplift the Foundation’s mission of advancing diversity, equity, and access in classical music and the performing arts.
At the heart of the evening were the performances, tributes, and shared moments of inspiration that reminded every guest why the work of this Foundation is so vital. Beneath the glow of the Manhattan skyline, this was more than a celebration—it was a call to legacy.
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Will Liverman, Christine Lyons, Andrea Bocelli and Symone Harcum attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by /PMC) *** Local Caption *** Will Liverman;Christine Lyons;Andrea Bocelli;Symone Harcum
About the Denyce Graves Foundation
Founded by world-renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, the Foundation stands as a testament to her lifelong dedication to artistry and access. Having graced the stages of the Metropolitan Opera, Washington National Opera, and concert halls around the globe, Graves has spent her career breaking barriers and expanding the reach of classical music. Through her Foundation, she is ensuring that others can do the same.
The Denyce Graves Foundation is dedicated to creating pathways for underrepresented artists in classical and performing arts through mentorship, education, archival preservation, and advocacy. The Foundation champions Black and Brown vocalists and composers whose work has too often gone unrecognized, transforming exclusion into inclusion and invisibility into influence.
By partnering with schools, conservatories, and cultural institutions, the Foundation serves as a bridge between tradition and transformation, ensuring that every talented voice—regardless of background—has the opportunity to be heard.
As a nonprofit organization anchored at the intersection of social justice, American history, and the arts, DGF seeks to expand the public’s understanding of the rich, multicultural history of classical music by bringing the stories of our nation’s hidden musical figures to light.
This is achieved through collaboration and alliance with renowned chroniclers, presenters and educators in history and culture, including The Smithsonian Institution, The Metropolitan Opera, the Library of Congress, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, as well as with some of America’s elite Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Conservatories, and Schools of Music.
Founded by Emmy® and Grammy® award-winning, world-renowned opera star Denyce Graves, The Denyce Graves Foundation celebrates trailblazing musicians, music educators, and composers of color through community engagement programs, concerts and presentations, creation of new works of art, establishment of young artist development training and more, as well as via social and traditional media. The Foundation sets the stage for true representation in American vocal arts by providing opportunities, access and exposure that all singers need to take ownership of their talent and shape their own fulfilling careers.
The Gala Experience
Stepping into the grand ballroom of Gustavino’s was like entering a moonlit dream. Tables shimmered with violet, gold, and ivory accents, each centerpiece a constellation of blooms and candlelight. The three-course dinner began with a Napoleon of grilled vegetables with spinach couscous, artichokes, roasted tomatoes, and crisp parsnip. The main course—a pomegranate-braised beef short rib with pumpkin purée and five-spice roasted acorn squash—was followed by a decadent sticky toffee pudding with pumpkin spice ice cream.
An open bar offered a curated selection of fine wines and mocktails, while soft notes of piano filled the room. Onstage, a full orchestra setup awaited, framed by three projection screens ensuring every guest had a perfect view of the evening’s performances.
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Deborah Roberts ad Al Roker attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s . (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC)
The audience was a vibrant cross-section of the arts: artists-in-residence, educators, patrons, and board members mingled alongside cultural figures and guests of honor. The event was hosted by Deborah Roberts, the acclaimed ABC News correspondent and co-anchor of 20/20, whose warmth and elegance guided the evening’s rhythm. A moment of stillness followed when Dr. Deepak Chopra led an invocation, offering a prayer of gratitude and creative alignment before dinner, followed by welcoming remarks from Terry Eberhardt.
Also in attendance was Barbara Tober and Suzi Cordish who were joined by Gala Chair and Board Member Ann Gottlieb in welcoming guests, which included Adrienne Arsht, Martina Arroyo, Mikhail and Lisa Baryshnikov, Henry Buhl, Deepak Chopra, Matthew Epstein, Simon Estes, Susan Gutfreund, Ryan Speedo Green, B Michael, Sherrill Milnes, Laura and Cal Ripken Jr., Al Roker, Anthony Scaramucci, Neil Shicoff, and George Shirley.
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: B Michael, Morgan James and Luke Frazier attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s =
Performances filled the hall with soul and splendor.
The stage came alive with additional performances from Symone Harcum, Emily Jarrell Urbanek, Paul Byssainthe Jr., Eugene Kohn, Will Liverman, Christine Lyons, and Richard Troxell, who also served as the evening’s charismatic auctioneer.
At each seat awaited a collection of thoughtful gifts:
- A Hidden Voices 2026 Calendar, celebrating singers of color in classical vocal arts.
- A Denyce Graves Foundation bookmark featuring composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875–1912)—highlighting his masterpiece Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast (1898), part of the Longfellow Trilogy that brought him international acclaim.
- And a CD of Denyce Graves’ A Cathedral Christmas, a timeless keepsake echoing the spirit of the evening.
Every detail reflected the Foundation’s mission—to honor the past, uplift the present, and invest in the future.
Honorees & Highlights
As dessert was served, the program turned to the honorees—luminaries whose lives embody the power of art to inspire and transform.
“This foundation was created through the hands and hearts of so many people in this room.” said DGF founder and mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves. “Friends like Barbara Tober, whose generosity has given our young artists a place to grow, and Ann Gottlieb, who has been in the trenches with us from day one. Tonight’s gala is not just a celebration of music, but of the extraordinary people who make it possible.”
The honorees were recognized for their contributions to music and mentorship.
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Chandrika Tandon attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Chandrika Tandon
Chandrika Tandon, globally celebrated business leader, humanitarian, and Grammy-nominated musician, was recognized for her unwavering commitment to uniting economic and emotional empowerment through music and education. Her upcoming original work, Soul Harmony—commissioned by the New York State Council on the Arts—will premiere in 2026, weaving ancient Vedic mantras with choral harmonies and modern text, symbolizing the unity of sound and spirit.
Dr. Louise Toppin, transformative educator and scholar, was honored for her pioneering work in archiving, publishing, and performing the works of African American composers. With over 19 recordings and 13 published scores, Toppin has reclaimed long-overlooked masterpieces for modern audiences and created anthologies that ensure these voices endure.
Francesca Zambello, the visionary director whose productions have graced the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and Covent Garden, was recognized for her leadership as Artistic and General Director of the Glimmerglass Festival, where she continues to open doors for young performers through innovative apprenticeship programs. Upon acknowledgement, Zambello echoed the sentiment resonating in everyone’s mind, “Art is for everyone. And now, more than ever, we need art and ideas. We need difficult conversations and courageous acts; the future of our democracy depends on this.”
And finally, Andrea Bocelli and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation were honored for their humanitarian and artistic impact. With over 90 million records sold and a career spanning the globe—from performing at the Olympic Games to the world’s great concert halls—Bocelli’s influence bridges classical excellence and universal emotion.
Honoree Andrea Bocelli, had this to say in recognition of being acknowledged for his impact in the arts, “Denyce Graves is a great friend of mine. I could say many things, but since my English isn’t so good, I thought I would do something better and sing for you,” before performing selections from Puccini’s La Bohème. “
The ceremony closed in standing ovation—a tribute not only to the honorees but to the enduring mission they collectively represent, using art to unite humanity.
The Harvest Moon, glowing bright above Manhattan, carried a deeper meaning beyond its celestial beauty. Traditionally the moon of abundance and gratitude, it symbolizes a time of gathering — of reaping what has been sown. For the Denyce Graves Foundation, it mirrored the essence of the evening: a harvest of voices, artistry, and legacy. Its luminous presence represented illumination — shining light on the artists, composers, and stories once left in shadow. Under its watchful glow, the Gala became not only a celebration, but a promise of renewal, inclusion, and the endless rhythm of creation.
Legacy & Impact
As the final notes faded and the Harvest Moon rose above Manhattan, it became clear that this gala was not simply a celebration—it was a catalyst.
The Denyce Graves Foundation is redefining access to classical music, giving rise to communities that once stood outside its walls. Through mentorship, scholarships, and performance opportunities, the Foundation empowers young artists who possess extraordinary gifts but lack the network or resources to be seen. It transforms potential into legacy and invisibility into artistry.
The proceeds from the gala will fund programs that train, mentor, and spotlight emerging talent, creating a more inclusive and equitable landscape for the arts. What unfolded that evening was both a reflection and a revolution—a celebration of how far we’ve come, and a vision for the world yet to be built.
As the moon’s glow bathed the skyline, it seemed to illuminate the voices of those who had long been left in the shadows—composers whose scores were never performed, singers whose stories were never told. The light of the Harvest Moon did not simply shine; it revealed, calling forth a chorus of brilliance that had always been waiting to be heard.
The night ended with a single truth echoing through the hearts of all who attended: One voice. Many nations. Countless songs. All deserving to be heard.
For more information on the Denyse Graves Foundation and how you can show your support, visit www.thedenycegravesfoundation.org
See the gallery below for highlighted guests in attendance:
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Andrea Bocelli, Adrienne Arsht, Denyce Graves and Anne Gottlieb attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Andrea Bocelli;Adrienne Arsht;Denyce Graves;Anne Gottlieb
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Ann Gotlieb, Denyce Graves and Justin Bell attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Ann Gotlieb;Denyce Graves;Justin Bell
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: B Michael, Morgan James and Luke Frazier attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** B Michael;Morgan James;Luke Frazier
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Chandrika Tandon, Denyce Graves, Andrea Bocelli, Deborah Roberts and Al Roker attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by /PMC) *** Local Caption *** Chandrika Tandon;Denyce Graves;Andrea Bocelli;Deborah Roberts;Al Roker
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Deborah Roberts attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Deborah Roberts
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Louise Toppin attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Louise Toppin
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Mark-Anthony Edwards, Denyce Graves, B Michaels and Adrienne Arsht attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Mark-Anthony Edwards;Denyce Graves;B Michaels;Adrienne Arsht
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Ras Dia and Kelly Clarke attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Ras Dia;Kelly Clarke
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Terry Eberhardt attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Terry Eberhardt
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: Terence Blanchard and Dr. Louise Toppin attend Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Terence Blanchard;Dr. Louise Toppin
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 6: ? attends Denyce Graves Foundation Harvest Moon Gala 2025 at Gustavino’s on October 6, 2025 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** ?