NEW YORK (CelebrityAccess) — The ASCAP Foundation that recording artist and activist Natalie Merchant will be recognized with The ASCAP Foundation Champion Award. Francisco Núñez, composer, conductor, artistic director and founder of the Young People’s Chorus of New York City will be presented with the ASCAP Foundation Life in Music Award.
“Natalie Merchant has lent her name and voice to the causes of environmental protection, domestic violence, racism, arts education and more, and Francisco Núñez has enriched the lives of thousands of children of every cultural and economic background with innovative music education,” said The ASCAP Foundation President Paul Williams. “Their passion and commitment to philanthropy are sterling examples of how the creative community can step forward to improve the human condition. They ‘walk the walk’ and are inspirations for all of us.”
The Champion Award was established by The ASCAP Foundation to recognize ASCAP members whose contributions extend beyond music to significant charitable and humanitarian efforts. Previous members who have received the award include Tony Bennett, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Judy Collins, Arlo Guthrie, Billy Joel, Richard Marx, John Mellencamp, Jason Mraz and Ne-Yo.
The Life in Music Award is presented by The ASCAP Foundation to an ASCAP writer member for their accomplishments as a composer, songwriter, performer, arranger or vocalist in any genre. Previous award winners include Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, groundbreaking jazz composer and bandleader Maria Schneider, acclaimed choral music composer Morten Lauridsen, songwriter, musician and activist Jesse Winchester and jazz pianist, composer and arranger Horace Silver.
The awards will be presented at the ASCAP Foundation Honors on Wednesday, December 11 in New York City. The evening will also feature performances by rising talent in various musical genres.
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