Dinner honors Maestro Kirk Muspratt's 20 years with New Philharmonic

Posted October 17, 2024 10:28 pm

Submitted by Ann Fink

From left, McAninch Arts Center Director Diana Martinez, philanthropist and community ambassador John Rutledge, Maestro Kirk Muspratt, philanthropist Bjarne Ullsvik and College of DuPage Foundation Executive Director Karen Kuhn. Courtesy of COD Foundation

On Oct. 6, New Philharmonic musicians and fans of Maestro Kirk Muspratt attended an exclusive celebration and fundraising dinner celebrating New Philharmonic and Maestro Kirk Muspratt’s 20 years as music director and conductor.

The event took place at the Abbington Banquets in Glen Ellyn and began with a cocktail reception.

New Philharmonic General Manager Paula Cebula receives a Service Award from College of DuPage Director Diana Martinez. Courtesy of the COD Foundation

Following a plated dinner featuring a duo of champagne chicken and filet mignon, the evening’s program commenced with opening comments by MAC director Diana Martinez, and remarks from New Philharmonic leaders past and present, including New Philharmonic Manager Paula Cebula and, of course, the Maestro himself.

Maestro Kirk Muspratt addresses dinner guests. Courtesy of the COD Foundation

The program also included performances from members of the orchestra and a performance by Chicago Symphony Orchestra Assistant Concertmaster David Taylor, wrapped up the evening with a selection of works including (with a nod to New Philharmonic’s upcoming Nov. 1-3 John Williams concerts) the violin solo from “Fiddler on the Roof.”

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Assistant Concertmaster David Taylor performing at an event celebrating New Philharmonic and Maestro Kirk Muspratt. Courtesy of the COD Foundation

Muspratt was overwhelmed by the evening calling it “humbling and extremely moving” and “an evening that I will NEVER forget.”

New Philharmonic violist Jennifer Silk entertains guests before the dinner. Courtesy of the COD Foundation

Article Comments

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.