The Miami Symphony Orchestra‘s (MISO) yearly fundraiser was a more playful, relaxed affair because it wasn’t a black tie gala as in the past. It was the first “Big Hats & Bow Ties” Blues Brunch. An inspired idea from the advisory board’s luncheon chairs, Criselda Breene, Iran Issa-Khan and Sam Robin — and these girls know how to throw a party.
MISO’s conductor, Maestro Eduardo Marturet — a tour de force in the classical music world — and his very glamorous actress and model wife, Athina Klioumi Marturet, were as ever, the most gracious, entertaining hosts.
The brunch was held at one of my favorite places, Juvia restaurant, on the rooftop of the award-winning 1111 Lincoln Road building, where in addition to the creative cuisine, there’s a jaw-dropping view of South Beach. Our society ladies went all out with intricate hats and fascinators, showing a serious commitment to fashion. The dapper gents weren’t far behind, with an assortment of chapeaux, from Panama hats to fedoras, combined with many a snappy bow tie. A jazz quartet comprised of MISO musicians played live jazz as we mingled, downed rivers of champers and table-hopped in between bites of Juvia’s exquisite signature dishes, a fusion of French, Japanese and Peruvian cooking styles.
It was the place to be for classical music lovers. Sponsors included designers Ana Sofia Tarbay, Silvia Tcherrasi, Angel Sanchez and the Ritz-Carlton Residences.
The MISO has existed in South Florida for over a quarter century and has developed a distinct musical voice under the baton of Maestro Marturet by performing an increasing number of national and world premieres. The not-for-profit symphony conducts arts and education programs for students in the Miami-Dade Public School System and provides low and no-cost concert tickets to students, senior citizens, first responders, active military and veterans in South Florida. For more information visit www.themiso.org
Daisy Olivera
PHOTOS: ZOLTAN PREPSZENT www.Luxhunters.com
