2024 Music in the Schools Luncheon

2024 Music in the Schools Luncheon

Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 12:30PM

Please join us for Berkeley Symphony’s Music in the Schools Luncheon honoring Shannon Houston, Orchestra Director at Longfellow Middle School and founder of the New Apollo Youth Symphony Orchestra. We will also be honoring the memory of Bennett Markel, whose ardent support of MITS was unparalleled.

About Shannon Houston

Shannon Houston, a Bay Area native, discovered his passion for the violin at 8 and later earned a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance and teaching credential from Sacramento State. Currently a dedicated music teacher in BUSD, Shannon directs the Longfellow Middle School Orchestra, infusing his classes with a vibrant musical atmosphere. Drawing on his extensive performance background with ensembles like the Sacramento Philharmonic, Sacramento Baroque Soloists, and Oakland Civic Orchestra, he inspires young musicians. Recognizing a need for musical opportunities beyond schools, Shannon founded the New Apollo Youth Symphony Orchestra, providing underprivileged and BIPOC students a platform for musical expression. Now residing in Berkeley, he envisions expanding the New Apollo to benefit young musicians across the Bay Area, while actively enriching the community through music both inside and outside the classroom.

Sponsorships & Tickets

Table Sponsorship - $2,500 ($1,620 tax-deductible)
Luncheon Table for 8 • 4 pairs of tickets to Berkeley Symphony's French Reverie on February 25, 2024, 4PM

Supporter Tickets - $250 each ($140 tax-deductible)

Community Tickets - $125 each ($15 tax-deductible)

Your afternoon includes a delicious three-course meal with your choice of entree:

Butter Lettuce Salad
Gala Apples, Candied Walnuts, Tarragon & Champagne Vinaigrette (Gluten Free, Contains Nuts)

Three Cheese Ravioli
Roasted Zucchini, Pesto Cream Sauce & Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

Ratatouille Provençal
Stewed Eggplant, Squash, Peppers, Tomatoes & Basil over Grilled Polenta (Vegan, Lactose Free, Gluten Free)

Roasted Atlantic Salmon
Potato Mousseline, Seasonal Vegetables & Beurre Blanc Sauce (Gluten Free)

Flourless Chocolate Torte
Crème Anglaise (Gluten Free)

Please RSVP by February 5, 2024