For the Wausau Times

WAUSAU – On March 18, the Wausau Conservatory of Music will host its virtual 40th Anniversary Fundraising Gala at 6:30 p.m.

“To keep guests socially distanced, the virtual gala and auction will be live streamed and utilize an online bidding platform.  Admission is free and open to the public,” an event release stated.

“This annual event, usually titled Una Notte Bella, has been reimagined for today’s audience,” Olivia Hill, executive director for the Conservatory. “We’ll of course miss being able to meet our friends and donors face-to-face, however, we’re excited for the new opportunities this year’s event will provide.”

The fundraising goal for the 2021 event is $25,600. These funds will directly benefit the tuition assistance program at the Conservatory. Each year the Conservatory aims to provide up to $35,000 in tuition assistance.

“At the Conservatory we believe that music education is core to living and learning. No student will be turned away because of an inability to pay,” Hill said.

Participants can RSVP online through March 18 and will receive the link to the live auction event upon registration.

Hill said donation revenues for tuition assistance has been down in the past year due to the pandemic, however, need for tuition assistance has increased.  

Tickets can be reserved online at wausauconservatory.org.

For more information, call the Conservatory office at 715-845-6279.