Dr. Sanford L. and Beatrice Ziff will join Néstor Rodriguez, president of Classical South Florida (CSF), on Friday, Feb. 7, to honor individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the arts in South Florida. The event will take place at the historic Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave in Coral Gables. The Social Hour starts at 11:15 a.m. with lunch at noon.
This year’s honorees include: Christopher and Vicki Kellogg, Chamber Music Society Palm Beach; James and Valerie Judd, Miami Music Project; Swanee and Paul DiMare; Julian Kreeger, Friends of Chamber Music; Dr. Margaret S. Eidson and Lewis S. “Mike” Eidson, and Romero Britto.
“Dr. Ziff is legendary for his wide-ranging philanthropy,” Rodriguez said. “He demonstrated his love and commitment for classical music and commitment to the success of Classical South Florida 89.7 with his gift of a million dollars six years ago.
“It was a crucial time for our fledgling member-supported radio station and his financial support provided us with a strong foundation. His ongoing support has encouraged others to make contributions,” Rodriguez added.
“This will be an afternoon to remember,” said Rob Davis, director of development for CSF Southeast Florida. “In addition to honoring these outstanding arts patrons, we will also recognize members of our Leadership Circle, a vital group of donors.”
Guests will have the opportunity to socialize with other classical music lovers and will be treated to a special live musical performance by the Miami Music Project while enjoying lunch. In attendance will be some past honorees.
The event helps mark the sixth anniversary of 89.7 FM. According to general manager Jason Hughes, Classical South Florida has grown dramatically. He noted that there are now three stations dedicated to broadcasting classical music, including 88.7 FM in Fort Myers/Naples.
“Over the past six years, membership in CSF has grown to well over 14,000 with average weekly listenership topping 300,000,” he said.
Leadership Circle members have the opportunity to attend a variety of programs throughout the year, including the very popular Classical Conversation series.
Individual tickets are $50 per person and free to Leadership Circle members. To make reservations or to find out more about the Leadership Circle, call Rob Davis at 1- 954-522-8755 ext 18, or visit <www.classicalsouthflorida. org>.
Classical South Florida is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public radio organization dedicated to broadcasting classical music. Its fulltime schedule of classical music includes broadcasts of nationally renowned programs such as Performance Today, SymphonyCast, Carnegie Hall Live, The Metropolitan Opera and Concerto.
Classical South Florida began broadcasting in South Florida in October 2007. Its program service can be heard on WKCP 89.7 FM in the Upper Keys, Miami and Fort Lauderdale, on WPBI 90.7 in the Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast and on 88.7 in Fort Myers/Naples.
