Spotlight on Music – David Benoit Dinner Concert & All-Star Jam Benefits Pacific Vision Youth Symphony
Photos by Bob Young
Multi-Grammy nominee David Benoit led an all-star jazz band for the Pacific Vision Youth Symphony fundraiser on Sunday, November 7. The energy was palpable from the moment the attendees entered the silent auction area and experienced the joyful hum of conversations, as people eagerly signed their bids for valued items from local businesses.
The evening event was preceded by the 12th annual AASA doubles tennis tournament. Winners of the doubles tournament included: Chie Kawauchi & Janet Stearns, Gabe Davis & John Proulx, Jordan Bao Shapiro & Liane Baumann, David Benoit & Pat Kelley.
The event had limited seating, due to COVID 19 protocols, and was still a great success. The evening featured a silent auction and live auction showcasing exciting packages: Lakers vs Clippers VIP tickets, Japan Airlines business class tickets, a stay in a private Paso Robles vineyard estate, trip to Tuscany and a private James Bond-themed dinner party with a performance by David Benoit. The live auction’s success was enabled by the talents of guest auctioneer, Manhattan Beach mayor pro tem Steve Napolitano.
The generosity and support of the PV community was evidenced at this elegant dinner held at the historic Palos Verdes Golf Club. The success was attributed to long-time patrons, as well as a strong wave of new supporters. PVE Mayor Victoria Lozzi and other local dignitaries attended the event. Generous donations from businesses, including Mama Terano, Primo Italia, Bettolino Kitchen, Locale90 Pizza, Rock & Brews, Hennessey’s, Talbots, Lunada Market & Deli, Annie’s Boutique—propelled this year’s silent auction to be a banner year.
Benoit was joined onstage by AASA alumni touring musicians: saxophonist Justin Klunk (who toured with Ariana Grande), young drummer phenom Vinnie Aguas, dazzling bassist Cory Ng, outstanding guitarist Lance Conrad; as well as veteran jazz guitar great Pat Kelley, brilliant bassist Gabe Davis and Grammy-award winning composer and pianist John Proulx. The energy in the ballroom was reflected by the spectacular music, rousing cheers and the impromptu dancing that closed the evening.
AASA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all funds raised support music education and performance opportunities for local young musicians. The success of this event allows AASA to commemorate its 60th Anniversary celebration in April 2022. If you’d like to find out more about AASA’s programs or simply support them, please call (310) 377-8977 or visit AASymphony.org