New York City - Carnegie Hall launched its year-long 120th birthday celebration on Tuesday, April 12 with a one-night-only gala event hosted by renowned singer/songwriter James Taylor in Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage. This festive evening paid tribute to Carnegie Hall's illustrious history, highlighting many of the extraordinary musical and cultural events that have taken place on the Hall's legendary stages over the past 12 decades. Featured special guests included Barbara Cook, Steve Martin, Bette Midler, Kevin Pollak, Dianne Reeves, and Sting, with members of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus and the Young People's Chorus of New York City among others. After the concert, guests were joined by the performers for an exclusive after-party dinner at The Museum of Modern Art.

The James Taylor gala event - benefiting Carnegie Hall's artistic and education programs - was chaired by Clarissa and Edgar Bronfman, Jr. Carnegie Hall officially turns 120 on May 5, 2011.