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Music for Autism
Three gala guests pose with Music for Autism’s Musical Trailblazer Award at CAG’s 75th Anniversary Gala.

Music for Autism Honored at CAG’s 75th Anniversary Gala

What a joy to celebrate a partner that has been with us from the very beginning! On September 14, Music for Autism was honored with a 2026 Musical Trailblazer Award at Concert Artists Guild’s 75th Anniversary Gala at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City. We were deeply touched to be recognized alongside the Emerson String Quartet and photographer and arts advocate Jill Steinberg.

For nearly two decades, our partnership with CAG has brought extraordinary young artists to our audiences, united by a belief that great music should be accessible to everyone. Thirty-two CAG soloists and ensembles—and counting—have shared their talent, warmth, and humanity at our free, autism-friendly, interactive concerts. From the Enso, Argus, and Balourdet quartets to Sybarite5, the Merz Trio, and so many more, these remarkable musicians have helped create moments of joy and belonging for autistic individuals and their families.

Accepting the award, our U.S. Founder and Board Chair Robert Accordino and Artistic Director Ryan Gardner reflected on the people who helped this partnership grow. Robert recalled sharing our mission with then-CAG president Richard Weinert while he was a first-year medical student. Ryan reminded us that pianist Tanya Bannister, now CAG’s president, performed at our very first concert in 2007. CAG has been showing up for our community ever since.

The evening celebrated that same spirit through music by CAG artists and alumni, including Joshua Brown, Leland Ko, Samrat Majumder, Evren Ozel, JIJI, and João Luiz Rezende. It was a wonderful reminder of the artistry and generosity that have made this partnership so meaningful.

Three guitarists perform for guests at Concert Artists Guild’s 75th Anniversary Gala.
CAG artists and alumni share their music at the 75th Anniversary Gala. Photo courtesy of Concert Artists Guild / Alfred Kan.

Thank you, CAG, for this beautiful honor, for championing incredible young musicians, and for sharing our commitment to connection and community. Congratulations on 75 years—we are so grateful to be part of your story and look forward to all the music still to come!

Four gala guests smile together on the rooftop with the New York City skyline behind them.
A joyful evening together at Tribeca Rooftop.
A group of gala guests gathers on the rooftop at sunset.
Celebrating friendship and a longstanding partnership.
Gala guests talk beside a candlelit dinner table beneath the glass roof at Tribeca Rooftop.
Sharing a special evening of music and community.
A grand piano onstage beneath projections celebrating Concert Artists Guild’s 75th anniversary.
Celebrating 75 years of Concert Artists Guild.

Featured photo: Celebrating Music for Autism’s Musical Trailblazer Award at CAG’s 75th Anniversary Gala. Photo courtesy of Concert Artists Guild / Alfred Kan.