(Credit: Chris Singer)

The Harmony Program, a non-profit organization that provides community-based musical training to underserved children across New York City, has announced its first-ever virtual gala fundraiser starring Joyce DiDonato.

The fundraiser will take place on March 3 and will air on the Harmony Program website. The 30-minute gala will be hosted by CBS News’s national correspondent and anchor Adriana Diaz and will highlight the importance of music in shaping young lives. DiDonato will share her own musical story and insights in a thoughtful conversation with young Harmony Program alumni.

In a statement, the mezzo-soprano said, “I’m thrilled to support the Harmony Program and its efforts to inspire the musical dreams of children across New York City. Music has the power to lift our spirits, strengthen our character, and bring us together, and we all need that more than ever during this challenging time. I look forward to engaging with Harmony Program’s students and to celebrating this wonderful organization.”

The Virtual Gala will feature students from the program, including Alondra Dominguez Morales, 9, a violin player from Hamilton Heights/Manhattan, Michelle Puebla, 15, a violin player from Queens, and Adam Brazzley, 13, a trumpet player from the Bronx. DiDonato will conduct a spirited and insightful Q&A with Harmony students during the virtual gala.

All proceeds from the 2021 Virtual Gala support the Harmony Program’s efforts to expand access to music education across New York City.