Orchestra Manhattan, with Gerard Schwarz conducting, is a newly formed orchestra consisting of top players from all over the New York-New Jersey area, which tours worldwide. The internationally acclaimed conductor is renowned for his emotionally compelling performances, innovative programming, and dedication to music education. He currently serves as Music Director of the All-Star Orchestra, Palm Beach Symphony, and Frost Symphony Orchestra. Schwarz has premiered over 300 new works and is a passionate advocate for American composers, with recent long-form commissioning projects that extend beyond a single institution.

On January 23, 11-year-old pianist Amelia Ly will perform in St. Augustine. A student at Vanderbilt University Blair School of Music since age 8, Ly has traveled the globe performing with orchestras, including the Lviv National Philharmonic in Ukraine and performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in its entirety, receiving a standing ovation.