RECOGNITION: A force in the performing arts world, The New Orchestra of Washington will honor the 2019 ArtsMatter Award Recipient Neeta Helms for her invaluable contributions.
by Patrick D. McCoy
The New Orchestra of Washington will play host to its 2019 NOW Fest Concert and Gala on Saturday, March 30 at the Organization of American States. Under the gracious patronage of Ambassador, H. E. Jorge Lomónaco and the Mission of Mexico to the OAS, the festive evening will feature a special concert of music performed by the New Orchestra of Washington, a silent auction and traditional Mexican cuisine.
At the center of the celebration will be a special award presentation made to Neeta Helms, founder and president of Classical Movements. Helms was born in India to a musical family. She studied piano from the age of four, singing in public and in choirs since age five. Holding a B.A. in Economics and an M.B.A. from India’s top institutions, she has built Classical Movements into the premier music touring company, offering services to world-class orchestras and choruses, world-renowned conductors, composers and soloists, as well as numerous celebrated institutions. Additionally, she has led trailblazing tours all over the world, including Russia, only a year after the fall of the Soviet Union. In spite of constant challenges, Helms has made a deliberate effort to take ensembles to frequently overlooked destinations, currently operating in 145 countries.
For more information about how you can attend the concert and gala, CLICK HERE
At a glance:
NOW FEST 2019 Concert and Gala
Saturday, March 30 | 6:30PM
Organization of American States
200 17th St NW, DC
A native of Petersburg, VA, Patrick holds a BM in Vocal Performance from Virginia State University and a MM in Church Music from Shenandoah Conservatory. Formerly the Performing Arts Columnist for Washington Life Magazine, he currently is a freelance writer, publishing articles for several noted publications, including Early Music America, The Afro-American Newspaper, CBS Washington and Examiner.com. He is a member of the Music Critics Association of North America, National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc., a member of the Shenandoah University Alumni Board of Directors and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He serves as Organist/Choirmaster at Saint John’s Episcopal Church, Zion Parish in Beltsville, MD. Visit http://patrickdmccoy.com