Night on the Hudson will raise money for children’s music education

It will be an evening of live music as the United Children's Music Project (UCMP) holds its annual fundraiser, A Night on the Hudson, on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. at Weehawken's Chart House.

This year's event will honor the Turrell Fund, UCMP's sponsor and partner, for their dedication to improving the lives of children. The keynote speaker will be Weston Sprott, director of the Juilliard School's Music Advancement Program (MAP), who will share his insight on music education led by community-based organizations like UCMP.

"The Turrell Fund is grateful to be the United Children's Music Project (UCMP) 2024 honoree," said Evan Delgado, president of programs for the Turrell Fund. "Turrell focuses on supporting the youngest and their families in New Jersey and Vermont. Expanding access to high-quality arts and education opportunities is a critical priority for the fund."

The event will bring together community leaders, local businesses, and supporters to celebrate and raise funds for UCMP, which has provided low-cost, after-school music education for underserved children and youth in Hudson County for the past 12 years.

Along with performances by UCMP's student musicians and Venezuelan opera star Maria Brea, audiences will also be able to hear stories of how the UCMP transforms the lives of local kids.

The UCMP provides children ages three to 18 with orchestral and choral music education, free instruments, and performance opportunities. Their after-school programs also serve many children from families with limited resources, which are meant to improve academic performance, increase high school graduation rates and open students up to higher education and career opportunities.

"A Night on the Hudson is not just an event – it's a celebration of the power of music to change lives," said Melina Garcia, UCMP's founder and executive director. "We're incredibly grateful to our community for their ongoing support, which allows us to continue transforming our students so they can fulfill their potential."