The Guitar Center Music Foundation (GCMF), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting music education and therapy programs through instrument donations and grants, hosted its 4th Annual Gala on September 11 at The Maybourne Hotel in Beverly Hills.
The evening honored legendary sound mixer John McBride with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his pioneering work in live sound and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of engineers. GRAMMY® award-winning duo Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis were recognized with the Vanguard Award for their enduring support of music education and advocacy for access to the arts.
“The next Paul McCartney is out there right now, and it’s our responsibility to make sure they have access to the instruments, programs, and encouragement to find their sound,” said Gabe Dalporto, CEO, Guitar Center. “That’s what this Foundation is all about. We make sure music education and support programs are available to those who need them most.”
The ballroom was filled with music’s most celebrated names, including Garth Brooks, Martina McBride, Estelle, Johnny Gill, Tina Campbell, Eric Bellinger, Durand Bernarr, and RED HANDS. In addition to celebrating the honorees, the Foundation also recognized members of the Los Angeles Fire Department for their bravery during this year’s wildfires, underscoring the Gala’s broader theme of community and resilience. Highlights included:
- Martina McBride introducing husband John McBride, followed by a surprise appearance from Garth Brooks, who delivered a moving tribute.
- Nicole Avant presenting Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis with the Vanguard Award.
- A powerhouse closing set by Morris Day and The Time, with Jimmy Jam on keytar and Terry Lewis on bass, under the direction of Emmy and GRAMMY® winner Adam Blackstone.
Beyond the music and tributes, the gala raised critical funds for GCMF’s mission. Proceeds will support its Disaster Relief Program, providing instruments and recovery resources to musicians impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires, as well as its ongoing Grant Program, which has already assisted more than 600 musicians and over 10 schools nationwide this year.
“I am delighted by the overwhelming success of this year’s Annual Gala,” comments Guitar Center Foundation chairman David Helfant. “We raised a very large amount of money to further the mission and programs of the Foundation. Special thanks go out to our honorees Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and John McBride, our sponsors, and everyone who attended the Gala. We look forward to utilizing the funds raised to continue to provide musical instruments and grants to musicians, schools, educators, and hospitals for music education and music therapy. Music saves lives and the funds raised from the Event will help so many people across the country.”
The event was produced by the Guitar Center Music Foundation board of directors with Angelia Shepperd from ABS Collective, with technical production by Nick Urbom of Big Push Media Group. Sponsors for the evening included: Audio Visual Design Group (AVDG), Blackbird Studio and Academy, Clair Global, Custom House at Guitar Center, Drum Workshop, Inc. (DW), Ernie Boch, Jr., and Roland.
Contact info@guitarcenterfoundation.org to get involved. To learn more, visit http://www.GuitarCenterFoundation.org, or follow GCMF on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram for more news or to discover ways to support The Guitar Center Music Foundation.
ADVERTISEMENT
Looking Back on 2025: A Year of Controlled Chaos (Emphasis on “Controlled”)