May 11, 2016

‘An Intimate Evening with Yuja Wang’ Benefits Phoenix Symphony

Top, left: Bruce Halle, Jimmy Walker, Diane Halle and Nancy Walker. Top, middle: Dr. Robert Spetzler and Nancy Spetzler. Right: Nancy Hanley and Yuja Wang. Bottom, left to right: Cathy Dickey and Jane Jozoff; Jacquie and Bennett Dorrance; the dinner tables.

Set against a picture-perfect spring sunset, the sold-out event “An Intimate Evening with Yuja Wang” was an exclusive musical journey held at Nancy Hanley’s Paradise Valley home on May 5.

Limited to 80 guests, the evening began with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before the 28-year-old, world-renowned Wang performed a unique and energetic concert. Her charismatic presence and skill provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience for guests. After the recital, guests enjoyed a seated gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Vincent Guerithault. During dessert, Jim Ward, Phoenix Symphony president and CEO, held a Q&A with the pianist.

Barbara Anderson, Nancy Hanley, Jane Jozoff, Ellen Katz and Polly Levine chaired the event, and Nancy and Dr. Robert Spetzler served as honorary chairmen. The evening was underwritten with all proceeds benefiting the Education and Community Engagement programs of The Phoenix Symphony.

Wang is widely recognized as one of the most important musicians of her generation. In addition to winning many prestigious competitions and awards, the pianist has been featured by some of the world’s leading orchestras. Wang made her solo recital debut at Carnegie Hall. In its review, the New York Times commended her “magisterial and dazzling performance.” She has returned to Carnegie Hall every season since, attracting capacity audiences and prompting standing ovations at each performance.

HAUTE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY