Wharton Arts to Honor Matthew Whitaker with Trailblazer Award at Annual Gala

Wharton Arts will honor acclaimed jazz pianist, composer, and music advocate Matthew Whitaker with the Trailblazer Award at the Arise to the Occasion Gala on April 17, 2026. The event celebrates Whitaker's extraordinary musical career and his alignment with Wharton Arts' mission of making performing arts accessible to all students, demonstrating how individual artistic excellence can inspire broader educational access.

Whitaker has captivated global audiences with performances on major platforms including Showtime at the Apollo, The Today Show, Ellen, and 60 Minutes. His versatility extends beyond performance to composition, having scored the Emmy-nominated documentary About Tomorrow, composed for films like Starkeisha, and created works for the Alvin Ailey Dance Company's 2024–2025 season. His fourth album, On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute (2024), received an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Jazz Album in 2025.

Artistic Director Helen H. Cha-Pyo emphasized Whitaker's embodiment of the organization's season theme values: Artistry, Representation, Inspiration, Self-Expression, and Empathy. His music transcends boundaries, his story inspires countless young musicians, and his heart for others reflects the core mission of arts education accessibility.

Executive Director Gina Caruso highlighted Whitaker's trailblazing impact at just 24 years old, noting how his journey demonstrates that talent, hard work, and passion can overcome challenges. His artistry and advocacy reflect Wharton Arts' commitment to creating spaces where every student can find their voice and share their music with the world.

The gala serves as a signature fundraising event supporting programs that empower students through music and performing arts. The evening will feature exceptional talent from Wharton Arts students, showcasing the next generation of artists nurtured by the organization's four programs: the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, and Wharton Performing Arts School.

Whitaker's collaborative work with renowned artists including Jon Batiste, Christian McBride, Derrick Hodge, Regina Carter, and Anderson .Paak demonstrates his significant impact on the contemporary music scene. His performances with symphonies worldwide and compositions for the 82-piece Bulgarian Symphony Orchestra underscore his international recognition and musical versatility.

Tickets and sponsorships for the Arise to the Occasion Gala are available at https://WhartonArtsGala.org. The event supports Wharton Arts' comprehensive educational programs that serve nearly 2,000 students across New Jersey, maintaining the organization's commitment to providing need-based scholarships and ensuring performing arts education remains accessible regardless of financial circumstances.