LThe silent and lively auctions taking place during the Festival Hill gala are sure to stun this Saturday 9th April. After appetizers and cocktails, guests will discover an array of enchanting items, from ballet tickets to one of Barbara Bush’s hats. Proceeds benefit the world-renowned Round Top Festival Institute, aka Festival Hill, and its mission to provide classical music to audiences in Texas and beyond, as well as its acclaimed summer music conservatory program. .
“Festival Hill at Round Top was founded in 1971 and has just celebrated its 50th anniversary,” said gala co-chair Mark Elvig. PaperCity. “My wife (Gala Co-Chair Katrina Packard Elvig) and I enthusiastically support Festival Hill because it is such a wonderful and unique program that is primarily dedicated to teaching and educating young music students on a large campus in a beautiful setting.”
Silent and Live Auction items are both steeped in history and offer unique experiences right now. A few of the unique pieces and auction offerings include:
Handcrafted wooden keepsake chest
This Larry Birkelbach keepsake chest allows bidders to take home a piece of Festival Hill. This chest was built and designed by Birkelbach, the master craftsman at the music institute who built this chest using hardwood materials from the Festival Hill concert hall.
Double Alliance Quilt
This beautiful quilt (circa 1930s) was made with cobweb stitching. It was assembled and quilted by hand, courtesy of Festival Hill founder and international piano maestro, James Dick. It has a personal connection, having belonged to Dick’s piano teacher in Hutchinson, Kansas, the late Leota Anderson.
Ancient Guitar, Lute and Piano Scarf
Part of Edythe Bates Old’s collection, these historic musical artifacts can spruce up any home with a bit of vintage flair.
A coveted front row parking spot
VIP parking for 12 months (yes a full year) at the Round Top Festival Institute’s beloved concert hall is no small perk.
Wool hat by Barbara Bush
Part of the Barbara Bush collection, this elegant hat was signed by the then First Lady herself and courtesy of Gala Chair Katrina Packard Elvig.
Shopping adventure at Haus Alkire
Round Top’s signature fashion house, Haus Alkire, offers custom-designed garments shaped by the brand’s art- and nature-inspired collections.
Party in the Square
What could be better than an evening at Festival Hill with Black Cat Choir and Armando’s Taco Truck? The best rock ‘n’ roll in Fayette County and Tex-Mex under a Texas sky? Now it’s a party.
Mary Quiros Canvas Plus Artist Studio Experience
An artistic adventure for up to 16 people also includes quaffs and bites at the Wine Bar at the historic Grand Fayette Hotel.
Five nights in a Spanish colonial style house in Marfa
A luxury casa sleeping six adults is up for auction for a five-night stay in Marfa. An outdoor fireplace, gourmet kitchen, and plenty of sunset views are just a few of the amenities that come with this gorgeous home, courtesy of Susan and Richard Ashcroft.
Week-long vacation home stay in Sullivan, Maine
This four-plus acre property is up for auction for an unforgettable week-long stay in Sullivan, Maine. Many classic Southeast activities are available including kayaking and fishing off a newly installed dock. This extraordinary Maine experience is courtesy of Presidents Katrina Packard Elvig and Mark Elvig.
Attendees of the Festival Hill: Prelude to the Next Fifty Gala will not only be able to enjoy beloved Festival Hill, but also help support it. Festival Hill Presidents and long-time customers look forward to welcoming new supporters at the gala.
“We both love Fayette County and are thrilled to be able to come together in such a wonderful opportunity for young musicians,” said gala co-chair Katrina Packard Elvig. PaperCity. “Festival Hill and James Dick are true jewels in the crown of music.”
To support the next half-century of Festival Hill, you can also donate here.
