Los Angeles Philharmonic Music and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel has been named the inaugural recipient of the Herb Alpert Honor, a $1 million unrestricted grant recognizing his work expanding access to music education, it was announced Monday.
The award, presented by the Santa Monica-based Herb Alpert Foundation, honors individuals whose contributions have had a significant impact on youth and communities through the arts.
Dudamel, who will become music director of the New York Philharmonic later this year, was recognized for his efforts to provide music education opportunities to underserved communities through the Dudamel Foundation and his longtime involvement with Venezuela’s El Sistema program, according to the foundation.
“I am deeply humbled by this extraordinary gift, and we pledge to dedicate these funds to advancing the mission of the Dudamel Foundation,” Dudamel said in a statement. “We believe that access to beauty is a
fundamental human right, and this generous contribution will enable us to continue connecting young people through art and empowering them to build a better world, together.”
The Dudamel Foundation supports young musicians through programs focused on artistic development, cultural exchange and social inclusion, officials said.
“This Honor recognizes the profound power of music to shape lives, foster connection, and drive positive social change, and celebrates Gustavo Dudamel’s contributions to the betterment of humanity,” said Rona Sebastian,
president of the Herb Alpert Foundation.
The Herb Alpert Foundation, founded by musician and philanthropist Herb Alpert, said it has awarded more than $250 million in grants supporting arts and education initiatives.
The announcement came as Dudamel was also named keynote speaker for the USC’s 143rd commencement ceremony, scheduled for May 14 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
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