The Musical Arts Society of New Orleans struck a celebratory chord with this year’s Nocturne gala, held Oct. 19 at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans.
Marking the organization’s 45th anniversary, the evening brought together music lovers, who began the evening with a champagne reception before moving into a salon-style concert featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Vadym Kholodenko, who delivered a captivating performance of pieces by Franz Liszt and Sergei Rachmaninoff.
“We were thrilled to welcome acclaimed pianist Vadym Kholodenko as our 2025 Nocturne artist. Vadym won the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2013, which set him on the trajectory of a life-time career of being a concert pianist,” said MASNO Executive Director Cara McCool Wolfe.
“As an organization dedicated to providing young pianists with a platform to be heard on the international stage primarily through our international piano competition, it was especially meaningful to have Vadym with us, helping to raise funds to support emerging artists — just as he once was,” she added.
Following the performance, guests gathered for a multi-course seated dinner.
The evening not only celebrated world-class artistry but also highlighted the mission of the Musical Arts Society of New Orleans, which presents the New Orleans International Piano Competition and supports emerging pianists through performances, master classes and educational outreach.
Event co-chairs were Leo Landry and Terry Voorhies.
Fun Fact: MASNO’s 30th International Piano Competition is in July. There were a record number of applicants at 240 with the final 12 in the competition chosen in April. New this year is an orchestral final round with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.
