The 61st Piarist Ball took place on February 3, 2024, at the University Club in New York. The main aim of this year's ball was to revive traditions and support Piarist education in Hungary financially.
The event welcomed guests with a reception accompanied by the soothing background music of the Angyal Laura Jazz Quartet. The event commenced with a gala dinner and a welcome speech by the evening's host, Stephen M. Vajtay. Following the outstanding program, in accordance with old customs, young ladies were presented to society, introducing them to social life, followed by an elegant waltz performed by the attendees. Subsequently, the atmosphere of the ball, led by Spencer Bruno, was maintained by the Lester Lanin Orchestra. Thanks to the New York Liszt Institute, among the performing artists was Bernadett Nyári, a Hungarian violinist living in America, who took to the stage with a special Hungarian musical program. Following the virtuoso performances, guests could participate in an auction reminiscent of the 1800s, where they could bid on valuable items, with the proceeds being donated to Piarist education in Hungary. After the 'bidding war', attendees could enjoy a midnight display of the Csárdás dance, now considered a tradition.
The committee members and honorary members of the Piarist Ball include dignitaries such as Dr. Géza von Habsburg-Lothringen Archduke, Baroness Margit Bessenyey Bakách, businessman Tamás Péterffy, and other renowned barons, princes, and consuls. The New York Liszt Institute played a key role in the preparation and execution of the event.
Piarist Ball in New York evoking Traditions