Celebrating Matthew Whitaker: A Beacon of Musical Innovation and Advocacy

A Night of Elegance and Recognition

Wharton Arts extends a heartfelt invitation to the community for an evening that promises not only to be a celebration of exceptional talent but also an acknowledgment of the transformative power of music. The Arise to the Occasion Gala, scheduled for Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Morristown, emerges as a pivotal event in recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the performing arts landscape. Among the highlights of this gala is the honoring of Matthew Whitaker with the Trailblazer Award, a testament to his remarkable journey in music as a pianist, composer, and advocate for music education. The evening will commence with a cocktail reception at 6:00 PM, followed by dinner and performances at 7:30 PM, featuring Wharton Arts students from its four programs: the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, and Wharton Performing Arts School.

Matthew Whitaker: A Symphony of Talent and Advocacy

Matthew Whitaker's narrative is one of extraordinary talent and unwavering commitment to music and its power to inspire. His accomplishments span across various platforms, including prestigious appearances on Showtime at the Apollo, The Today Show, Ellen, and 60 Minutes. Whitaker's versatility as an artist is evident in his contributions to the Emmy-nominated documentary About Tomorrow, the film Starkeisha, and the Alvin Ailey Dance Company's 2024–2025 season. His fourth album, On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute (2024), not only pays homage to the pioneers of the Hammond B-3 but also earned him an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Jazz Album in 2025.

Wharton Arts' Artistic Director, Helen H. Cha-Pyo, and Executive Director, Gina Caruso, have both expressed their admiration for Whitaker's embodiment of the values central to Wharton Arts. His artistry, humility, and advocacy for making music education accessible to all resonate deeply with the organization's mission. Whitaker's influence extends beyond his music, inspiring young musicians and advocating for inclusivity in the arts.

Empowering the Next Generation Through Music

Wharton Arts plays a pivotal role in providing accessible, high-quality performing arts education to nearly 2,000 students across New Jersey. Through a range of classes and ensembles, including the New Jersey Youth Chorus and New Jersey Youth Symphony, Wharton Arts fosters personal growth, creative development, and a love for the performing arts. The Paterson Music Project, an El Sistema-inspired program, and the diverse offerings of the Wharton Performing Arts School, from musical theater to private instrument lessons, underline the organization's commitment to making performing arts education available to all, regardless of financial constraints.

As attendees look forward to the Arise to the Occasion Gala, they are reminded not only of the exceptional talent of artists like Matthew Whitaker but also of the broader mission of Wharton Arts to nurture and empower the next generation of performers. The gala serves as a crucial fundraising event, supporting programs that enable students to explore and excel in music and performing arts. For those wishing to be part of this remarkable evening, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at WhartonArtsGala.org.

In celebrating Matthew Whitaker's achievements, Wharton Arts invites the community to reflect on the transformative impact of music education and its ability to foster empathy, creativity, and unity. The Trailblazer Award not only honors Whitaker's contributions but also shines a light on the path he has blazed for future generations, embodying the spirit of artistry, representation, inspiration, self-expression, and empathy.