On the evening of April 3, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra welcomed over 600 distinguished guests to the Orpheum Theatre for its annual Power of Music Gala—a night that blended art, philanthropy, and celebration in one unforgettable experience. As one of Vancouver’s most anticipated cultural events, the Gala stood as both a tribute to the enduring spirit of music and a major fundraiser for the 106-year-old organization.
From the moment guests arrived, the Orpheum’s historic grandeur was elevated with breathtaking lighting installations, lush floral arrangements, and the refined sounds of live performances from VSO School of Music ensembles. The iconic theatre’s lobbies were transformed into a space of sensory delight, where guests mingled over exquisite canapés, surrounded by the artistry that has long defined the VSO’s legacy.
In a bold reimagining of the Orpheum auditorium, the traditional theatre seating was replaced with intimate sweetheart tables, creating a uniquely immersive and elegant dining experience. Guests were welcomed by none other than acclaimed Canadian broadcaster George Stroumboulopoulos, whose charm and wit set the tone for an evening filled with extraordinary musical moments.
The night featured captivating performances by two Canadian powerhouses: multi–Grammy-nominated indie singer-songwriter Feist, and internationally celebrated classical pianist Angela Hewitt on Fazioli piano. Their artistry, paired with the setting’s ambience, embodied the Gala’s mission—to celebrate and amplify the transformative power of music.
A high-energy moment of the evening arrived when Vancouver favourite Fred Lee took the stage as auctioneer, leading the Live Auction and Raise the Paddle with his signature flair. The generosity in the room was palpable, with $269,500 raised during this segment alone.
Heartfelt acknowledgements were offered by Angela Elster, President and CEO of the VSO and VSO School of Music, joined by VSO Board Chair David Garofalo, Gala Co-Chairs Bruce Munro Wright and Kerrie Sayer, and this year’s ‘Gold Baton’ honourees: Angela Hewitt and Brandt Louie, President and CEO of H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd and Chairman of London Drugs Limited. Together, they expressed deep gratitude for the community’s enduring commitment to music and education.
A longstanding partner of the VSO, TELUS was once again among the esteemed attendees. With the 2025–2026 season on the horizon, TELUS will mark an incredible 75 years of continuous support for the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra—an extraordinary milestone.
In total, the Gala raised an impressive $1.1 million, which will be directed to the VSO’s four philanthropic pillars: the VSO School of Music (Education), youth and community outreach (Youth & Access), regional touring (Outreach & Touring), and the people—musicians, staff, and volunteers—who are the lifeblood of the organization.
“On behalf of the VSO Gala Committee, Gala Co-Chairs Kerrie Sayer and Bruce Munro Wright, and all of us at the VSO and VSO School of Music, thank you to everyone who attended The Power of Music Gala,” said Angela Elster. “Their generosity and support resulted in an outstanding success, which helped raise $1,100,000 and counting! Thank you, thank you, thank you. Our gratitude also goes out to our corporate partners, including our presenting sponsor, Connor, Clark & Lunn Private Capital.”
With another successful Gala complete, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra now looks forward to its next major community event—the BMO Day of Music, returning on May 24. It promises yet another opportunity to experience the magic, passion, and power of music throughout the city.
Collage Images by Kyrani Kanavaros Photography.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].
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