A remarkable congregation of over 125 artists, community figures, and philanthropists took place on Sunday at the Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites for the Tasting Notes Gala. This event was organized to bolster Elemental Music's educational initiatives. Headlined by sponsors Will Ferrell and Viveca Paulin-Ferrill, the gala raised funds for programs that annually assist more than 800 students, with nearly 70% benefiting from scholarships or tuition-free offerings. The evening celebrated the Patels, a local couple recognized for their dedication to music education and community service. Additionally, the event featured live and silent auctions, culinary delights from regional establishments, and notable attendees from various sectors.

Recognizing Philanthropy and Community Leadership

The gala highlighted the contributions of Nimish and Nancy Patel, who have long championed educational and cultural causes in Santa Monica. Their commitment has significantly impacted local youth through their active roles in both public and private institutions. State Senator Ben Allen acknowledged their efforts by presenting them with a Certificate of Recognition.

Nimish Patel, recently appointed to the U.S. Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and Negotiations, is a senior partner at Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp. His tenure on the Santa Monica-Malibu School Board underscores his dedication to educational advancement. Meanwhile, Nancy Patel’s decade-long involvement with the SMMUSD PTA Board and her presidency at the Santa Monica-Malibu Education Foundation reflect her unwavering support for enriching educational opportunities. Together, they epitomize the spirit of giving back to the community, especially in nurturing young talents through music education.

Celebration of Arts and Fundraising Success

Organized by an enthusiastic committee, the gala incorporated elements of art, culture, and gastronomy to create an immersive experience for attendees. Live and silent auctions were central to the fundraising efforts, with generous contributions from numerous local entities. These included Angel City Football Club, Birdie G’s, BroadStage, among others, all supporting the cause of music education.

Beyond financial contributions, guests enjoyed exquisite offerings from local wineries, distilleries, and restaurants, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Notable personalities such as Gigi Decavalles-Hughes, Jennifer Ferro, Vincent Landay, and Jonathan Moerschel added star power to the event. As final calculations continue, early projections indicate that this year's gala could surpass previous records, marking a significant milestone for Elemental Music's outreach and impact on student lives.