Young Musicians Unite recently hosted its 11th Annual Gala at Mana Wynwood. The organization orchestrated a night of awe-inspiring performances by their talented young musicians who have dedicated themselves all year to showcase their achievements. Chaired by acclaimed actress and filmmaker Gabrielle Anwar, the gala was emceed by the Founder and Artistic Director of Hued Songs, Kumya Rowley. With its Motown Gold theme, the gala raised over $1 million to provide free music education to 7,500 students in Miami-Dade for the 2024/2025 academic year. These students, through their participation in music education, have honed their musical skills and experienced personal growth, fostering a sense of community and preparing them for future leadership roles.
Student-led performances at the gala included The Jazz Collective, Avalanche, YMPA Jazz Band, Carol City Marching Band, Not Yet Published, Undercover, and Miami Beach Rock Ensemble. The celeb-centric Silent Auction included an autographed guitar by Bee Gee’s very own Barry Gibbs and luxury trips to Casablanca and Telluride, raising $64,275 for the charity.
Since 2013, Young Musicians Unite, founded by musician/performer Sammy Gonzalez, has served over 16,000 students and strongly believes that every student in Miami-Dade deserves access to music education, regardless of their socio-economic background. The organization collaborates with schools to provide free music education, which has been proven to inspire personal development, foster a sense of community, and prepare future leaders.
Despite the limited access to arts programs in schools where it is most needed and least able to be resourced and sustained, Young Musicians Unite has stepped in to ensure that every child receives the opportunity they deserve to develop, share, and enjoy their unique talents. The organization makes it easy for schools to envision, build, and create thriving music programs, even without prior knowledge or an existing program.
