Getty And The Gala

Tunes were banging around in my head from my earliest memories,” recalls Gordon Getty, composer, singer, businessman, and philanthropist, known and admired around the world for his talents and generosity.

All artists, of course, have to suffer their detractors, but Gordon is generally regarded with great respect by musicologists. He does admit, however, “Like most other composers, I think my stuff should be done more and appreciated more—but I’m happy with the exposure and feedback I get.”

Born in 1934 and raised in San Francisco, Gordon attended St. Ignatius College Preparatory School and studied at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM). He’s been closely associated with the Conservatory ever since, even underwriting a recital hall and naming it after his beloved teacher there, the late Sol Joseph.

Recognizing Gordon’s major contributions over the years, the Conservatory is honoring him at a gala dinner concert in their handsome new headquarters, June 23. Longtime SFCM trustee Jan Buckley chairs, and mezzo-soprano Frederica “Flicka” von Stade will host the musical evening.

SFMC–THE HISTORY

The year was 1917, when local pianists Ada Clement and Lillian Hodghead opened the doors of Lillian’s remodeled home and began taking in students. Calling themselves the Ada Clement Piano School, they soon drew a following, and six years later, changed their name to the SF Conservatory of Music.

The school continued to grow, expanding its classes to include many instruments, and nurturing such talents as violin virtuosos Isaac Stern and Yehudi Menuhin.

In 1956, the Conservatory moved to 19^th and Ortega in the Sunset. There, from 1966 to 1990, President Milton Salkind expanded programs and guided the school’s growth from 42 to 250 students.

Colin Murdoch took over the presidency in 1992, and oversaw the successful $65 million fundraising campaign and construction of the new building at 50 Oak Street, which opened in 2006. He continues to broaden the curriculum, increase programs, and support both old and new musical works.

SFMC now has an enrollment of 407 students from all parts of the world. Additionally, more than 550 children—ages 4 to 18—study there after school and on weekends, and 300 adults enjoy evening and private classes.

In the words of music critic Robert Commanday, the SFCM continues “a tradition of affording our most talented and willing youth the best guidance and inspiration possible.”

FLICKA AND THE FUTURE

Well-known, much honored, and beloved around the world, Flicka von Stade praises the SFCM as one of the treasures of the city.

“I became more involved after receiving the amazing honor of recognition from the Conservatory,” she says. “I’d do almost anything to have someone else know the joy I’ve known in my career.”

And Gordon, she believes, is not only deserving of that joy, he’s “deeply respected for his love and knowledge of music.”

Asked what lies ahead, Flicka replies, “Colin Murdoch’s accomplishments never cease to amaze me. His vision has all the great elements of imagination, knowledge, and above all, heart, that will guarantee a great future for the Conservatory.”

THE GRAND GALA

This once-in-a-lifetime evening happens at the SFCM’s Oak Street location, in the heart of Civic Center. It includes cocktails in the atrium, followed by a short musical program in the Concert Hall, an elegant dinner in the Grand Tent, and appearances by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Zheng Cao, Jake Heggie, Robin Sutherland, and other musical notables. Proceeds will underwrite the Conservatory’s educational programs.

“There’s no way to thank Gordon for all he gives to us,” says Flicka, “but we’re going to start trying with this humble event to show our love, affection, and gratitude.”

Merla Zellerbach was a Chronicle columnist for 23 years and is the author of 12 books, including the recently released novel Secrets In Time. She was a TV panelist, and the Nob Hill Gazette editor for 12 years.