Pro Musicis has enjoyed a dynamic and often stormy history since its founding in France in 1965 and introduction to the USA in 1969. The legacy of its charismatic founder, Father Eugène Merlet, is most visible in the prestigious roster of Pro Musicis artists. His vision launched international ventures and attracted committed fellow travelers. Today Pro Musicis is firmly rooted on both sides of the Atlantic in Paris and New York City thanks to the generosity and passion of those who believe in the precious mission of Pro Musicis to nurture and share the artistic inspiration of the world’s finest concert artists. Highlights follow.
1965 Founded in Paris
1969 Incorporated as non-profit in New York State
1971 Inaugural USA concert, The Tombs, House of Detention, New York City
1975 Pierre Boulez conducted orchestral benefit, Town Hall, New York City
1978 Inaugural concert series, Jordan Hall, Boston
1981 Yehudi Menuhin benefit, Hospital of Special Surgery, New York City
1982 French public TV, 90 minute documentary
1984 Frederica von Stade benefit, Sacred Heart Convent, New York City
1985 Inaugural series, the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC
1986 Inaugural series, Los Angeles County Museum of Art
1987 Jacqueline Massy-Metadier bequest, Chateau Valesne, France
1988 Mayor Edward Koch proclaims June 13 “Pro Musicis Day in New York City”
1990 Inaugural series, Villa Medici, Rome, Italy
1991 Inaugural series, Opéra Comique, Paris, France
1992 USA public TV, 60 minute documentary, Peter Rosen Productions
1992 Inaugural series, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City
1994 Inaugural series, David Tang’s China Club, Hong Kong
1995 30th Anniversary Gala, Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, New York City
1996 Gala honoring Maestro Gunther Schuller, Wellesley College, Boston
1996 Hermes Gala to benefit Pro Musicis, The American Club, Hong Kong
1998 Award dinner, Jack Rudin, University Club, New York City
2000 Award dinner, Serge Bellanger and Ambassador William Luers, New York City
2002 Inaugural series, Salle Cortot, Paris, France
2003 Inauguration of partnership, Augustana Arts, Denver, Colorado
2005 Inauguration of partnership, Abbey Church Events, Lacey, Washington
2006 Award dinner, Ambassador William vanden Heuvel and Byron Janis, New York City
2008 “The Byron Janis Story,” Peter Rosen Productions
2010 Fiddle Fest in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall
2012 Guitar Fest in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall
2013 Father Merlet’s death in Paris on July 10
2014 Concert in Memory of Father Merlet, French Consulate, New York City
2015 50th Anniversary Gala, Piano Salon, Yamaha Artist Services, New York City
2015 50th Anniversary Festival, Collège des Barardins, Paris
2016 Inaugural Gala, Father Merlet Awards, French Consulate, New York City
2017 Award Gala, French Consulate, New York City
2018 Gala Award Dinner, French Consulate, New York City
2019 Gala Award Dinner, French Consulate, New York City
2021 Virtual Auditions, Timo Andres commission
2022 Virtual Auditions, Paul Wiancko commission