By Stephanie Stich
The Young Artists Philharmonic marked its 65th Anniversary Gala with an evening that celebrated the unique ability of music to unite young people across backgrounds and experiences at a time when meaningful in-person connection has become increasingly difficult to find.
For generations of Greenwich families, YAP has provided far more than orchestral training. The organization has created a place where students develop discipline, confidence, friendship, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts — values many guests noted feel increasingly important in an era shaped by social media, constant technology, and artificial intelligence.
YAP continues to uphold one of its core principles: no child is turned away because of an inability to pay. Supporters throughout the evening emphasized the importance of ensuring that students from all backgrounds can experience the connection, collaboration, and sense of community that live music uniquely provides.
Founded in Greenwich by beloved music educator and conductor Sal Princiotti, the Young Artists Philharmonic has spent the past 65 years helping young performers grow not only as musicians, but also as leaders and members of the community. Today, the organization continues to thrive through the dedication of its volunteers, whose commitment helps sustain YAP’s mission and programming for future generations.
The gala honored the Ashforth Family Concert Series at the Greenwich Library with the YAP Community Excellence in Music Award. The recognition celebrated the vision of Georgia “Georgie” Ashforth, who founded the beloved children’s concert series to provide free access to live classical music for Greenwich families.
Guests included First Selectman Fred Camillo, former YAP honoree and longtime community arts supporter Bea Crumbine, and Frank Gaudio, President of First Bank of Greenwich and a longtime supporter of music and arts education in the Greenwich community, along with representatives from local arts and cultural organizations across Greenwich.
The evening also recognized the generosity of sponsors whose support helps make YAP’s mission possible, including the First Bank of Greenwich, Steinway & Sons of Greenwich, and Stich Law.
The evening concluded with performances by YAP’s talented young musicians under the direction of conductor Darwin Shen, whose dynamic program captured the energy, artistry, and sense of community that continue to define the organization after 65 years.
