Some 250 people came together at the historic Biltmore Hotel recently for Classical South Florida’s (CSF) fifth annual Ziff Awards to honor some outstanding individuals and organizations that have made — and some that continue making — vital contributions to the arts in South Florida. With the generous support of Dr. Sanford L. and Beatrice Ziff, the luncheon was a huge success.
Arts and classical music lovers had a chance to socialize amid the palm trees and architecture of the Biltmore as they congratulated the several honorees. At noon, guests went into the Grand Ballroom for lunch, entertainment and the presentation of the honorees. In addition to key people from Classical South Florida, including Néstor Rodriguez; Jason Hughes, general manager, and Rob Davis, development director, there were members of CSF Leadership Circle. Young violist Yael Kleinman-Hyken, an alumna of the New World Symphony, started the program with a classical selection.
Davis welcomed Cindy Ziff, Dr. Ziff’s daughter and presented her with a special plaque acknowledging her ongoing work as the head of the Ziff Family Foundation. Cindy shared sentiments about how passionate her father is about the arts, with a special place in his heart for Classical South Florida.
This year’s Ziff Award honorees were Rose Ellen Meyerhoff Greene; Beth Holland; Dr. Richard and Bobbi Litt; Doreen Marx; Byron Krulewitch; The New World Symphony, which was accepted by Howard Herring, president/CEO of the New World Symphony; Palm Beach Opera, accepted by Daniel Biaggi, the opera’s general director, and Sebastian Spreng.
In a special fifth anniversary tribute, Classical South Florida also recognized all past Ziff Award honorees, some of whom were in attendance. Classical South Florida can be heard on WKCP 89.7 FM in the Upper Keys, Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
For information, call Rob Davis at 1- 954-522-8755, ext 18, or visit www.classicalsouthflorida.org.
