Jazz Virtuoso Matthew Whitaker to Receive Wharton Arts Trailblazer Award

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, at the Hyatt Regency Morristown. The recognition celebrates Whitaker's extraordinary musical career and his alignment with Wharton Arts' mission of making performing arts education accessible to all students.

At just 24 years old, Whitaker has established himself as a global musical force, performing 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, created music for films such as Starkeisha, and developed 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 of Arise—Artistry, Representation, Inspiration, Self-Expression, and Empathy. "Having had the joy and privilege of making music alongside him, I've experienced firsthand his boundless artistry, humility, and joy," Cha-Pyo stated. "His music transcends boundaries, his story inspires countless young musicians, and his heart for others reminds us why we do what we do."

Executive Director Gina Caruso highlighted Whitaker's significance as both artist and advocate. "Matthew Whitaker's journey as an artist reminds us that talent, hard work, and passion can overcome any challenge," Caruso said. "His artistry and advocacy reflect the essence of Wharton Arts' mission—to make the performing arts a place where every student, from 4-years-old to 90-years-old, can find their voice, reach higher, dream bigger, and share their music with the world."

The gala serves as a signature fundraising event for Wharton Arts, supporting programs that empower students through music and performing arts. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:00 PM, followed by dinner and performances at 7:30 PM featuring exceptional talent from Wharton Arts students. These performances showcase 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 standing within the music industry. His performances with symphonies worldwide, including the Aspen Chamber Symphony and the National Arts Centre Orchestra in Canada, along with compositions for the 82-piece Bulgarian Symphony Orchestra, underscore his international reach and artistic significance.

Tickets and sponsorships for the event are available at WhartonArtsGala.org. As New Jersey's largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center serving nearly 2,000 students, Wharton Arts offers need-based scholarships with the belief that performing arts education should be accessible to all people regardless of their ability to pay. The organization reaches students from 12 counties through locations in Berkeley Heights, New Providence, and Paterson, NJ.