TWO CAUSES OF utmost importance to Houston were celebrated at a single event: At its annual gala, Virtuosi of Houston, an orchestra comprised of young musicians, honored the city’s healthcare heroes.

The evening, held at the Intercontinental Hotel in the Medical Center, featured performances by the young musicians directed by the group’s founding Artistic Director and Conductor Andrzej Grabjec. Everyone received a standing ovation, of course.

Physician C. Richard Stasney, who founded the Texas Voice Center 30 years ago and serves as a consulting otolaryngologist for HGO, the Alley and TUTS, was among the honorees. Texas Children’s Hospital’s James Versalovic was also recognized for his dedication and commitment throughout the pandemic. And the Innovator Award was presented to Monzer Hourani, who founded Medistar Corporation and invented the Biodefense Indoor Air Protection System.

Chairs Cheryl Byington and Beth Wolff were thrilled with the night’s total till, which topped $180,000 and will go toward ensuring that all young performers will receive opportunities to grow to their full potential at Virtuosi, regardless of race, religion or financial status.

Andrzej Grabiec

The student orchestra

Bharti and Rani Puranik

Susan and Denis DeBakey

Bill Stubbs and Cynthia Wolff

Andrew and Rochelle Deiso

Myrtle Jones and Ashley Brooks

Chad Birken and Lauren Pham

Linda Wiley and David Addickes

Cheryl Byington, James Versalovic , Richard Stasney and Beth Wolff

Gaby Graubart and Gabriela Smith

Leslie Siller and Mary Fusillo