Taste of YMU Raises $65,000 to Amplify Free Music Education Across Miami-Dade

Source: Young Musicians Unite

Reported By: Caroline Dalal

In Miami Beach, Young Musicians Unite (YMU) hosted its most impactful edition of Taste of YMU to date, raising $65,000 in support of free, high-quality music education for students across Miami-Dade County. The intimate waterfront gathering took place at the private residence of YMU board member and British entrepreneur Richard Kilstock, blending culinary excellence, youth-driven performance, and philanthropic purpose into one unforgettable evening.

This year’s theme, “Cherry on Top,” offered guests more than a nod to Miami’s diverse cultural palette—it served as a metaphor for YMU’s commitment to turning public support into student opportunity. Guests were treated to an international array of culinary delights, including a traditional Argentine asado by The Asado Authority, Mediterranean-inspired fare from Sufrat, and cherry-forward cocktails crafted to reflect the evening’s spirit of joyful refinement.

The flavors were elevated by a selection of French wines and artisanal bites—each course chosen not just to impress, but to tell a story of global tradition meeting local creativity.

The emotional heart of the evening came from the student musicians themselves. Performances by the YMU Jazz Collective and Fourtune, both ensembles trained through the organization’s after-school programs, offered guests a firsthand look at the impact of music education in action. Their technical skill and stage presence reflected not only talent, but the power of consistent mentorship and opportunity.

As Zach Larmer, COO of YMU, noted:

“Taste of YMU is where Miami’s cultural pulse comes into focus. Our city’s most exciting chefs share the spotlight with the student musicians we work with every day—students who are developing not just their talent, but their future. The night has its own momentum. You feel the connection between creativity, opportunity, and real community impact.”

The evening wasn’t only about celebration—it was also a call to action. District 3 School Board Member Joseph S. Geller addressed the crowd, highlighting the uncertain future of Title I funding and the critical role private support will play in sustaining music and arts education in public schools.

“With the future of essential Title I funding now in jeopardy, this work is more urgent than ever,” Geller said. “I’m also deeply grateful to Young Musicians Unite for their tireless dedication to ensuring that every student has access to the transformative power of the arts.”

- Joseph S. Geller, District 3 School Board Member

Hosted by Richard Kilstock, Co-Founder and Chairman of Arkadia Property Group, and attended by Daniella Rich Kilstock, daughter of philanthropist and songwriter Denise Rich, the evening attracted figures from across Miami’s real estate, tech, and entertainment circles. Their collective presence signaled a shared belief in the value of youth empowerment through the arts—and a willingness to invest in it.

The $65,000 raised will directly support YMU’s mission to expand free music programming in under-resourced schools across Miami-Dade. Since its founding, the organization has already reached over 25,000 students—and with this latest support, that number is poised to grow.