The annual Vienna Philharmonic Society dinner and concert took place in a private club on February 27.
Their chairman, Marifé Hernández, said, “The Vienna Philharmonic represents the highest level of artistry, and this evening allows us to honor not just their music, but the tradition and camaraderie that surround it. It’s a unique gathering — one where we celebrate the legacy of the orchestra while strengthening the bonds within our community. It’s not just about the music; this is about the shared experience that connects us all.”
For the first time, the program included an honoree: the deeply philanthropic Elizabeth Segerstrom, who is taking the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra to her namesake institution in California, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Added Marifé, “Honoring Elizabeth was a natural choice for us. Her deep commitment to the arts and her work with the Vienna Philharmonic reflect the very values this Society holds dear—preserving the cultural heritage while making it accessible to new audiences. We are thrilled to see how her passion will help bring this orchestra to even greater heights.”
Replied Elizabeth, “It is a privilege to support an orchestra that embodies excellence and a tradition that has endured for centuries. The arts have the power to unite and elevate, and I’m honored to bring this remarkable orchestra to our community.”
A sextet played Mozart’s Divertimento in F Major, K. 247. Among them were three students from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra Academy: Carolin Lindner, violin; Antonia Ohnimus, viola; and Endre Steger, violoncello. The Academy is one of the Society’s hallmark projects, offering young musicians the unique opportunity to study under the guidance of the Vienna Philharmonic’s members. This prestigious program nurtures the next generation of orchestral talent, providing training and experience in a world-class environment.
Among the guests were board members Thomas Altmann, Stéphane Dalyac, Michael Douglas, Matthias Ederer, William Forster, Alexandra Kauka Hamill, John Hargraves, Marifé Hernández, Elizabeth Ingleby, Max Jahn, Cynthia Sculco, Theodora Simons, Suzy Wahba, and Sedgwick Ward. Special guests included Prosper and Marinte Assouline, Katharine and Wolfgang Aulitzky, Ariane Batterberry, Joel Bell, David Beer, William Bernhard, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Anya and Clive Gillinson, Margaret and Gregory Hedberg, Sylvia Hemingway, Yue-Sai Kan, Christopher Kellen, Elbrun and Peter Kimmelman, Reverend Leo O’Donovan, Elizabeth Segerstrom, Gillian Sorenson, Elizabeth Stribling and Guy Robinson, Noel Lateef, Galina Novikova, Philippe Petit, Carlos A. Picón, and Judith Pisar, Leah Pisar, and as well as first-time attendees Casey Cole and Timolin Cole-Augustus, the twin daughters of Nat King Cole, representing his foundation.
The Vienna Philharmonic Society is dedicated to supporting the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and preserving its rich legacy of excellence. Through its various initiatives, the Society provides critical funding and exposure to the orchestra’s performances and educational programs. For further information, visit viennaphilharmonicsociety.org
