A magnificent evening on Sept. 19 welcomed Manfred Honeck, the new music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony, and introduced him to many of the patrons whose support makes it possible for the orchestra to maintain its world-class standards. But board chair Dick Simmons promised even more. "The best is yet to come," he said -- not to put any pressure on the charming Austrian who celebrated his 50th birthday onstage after numerous ovations. The rousing concert featured famed Chinese pianist Lang Lang, who played to a sold-out and very appreciative crowd.

Before and after, the two-tiered opening-night gala attracted a total of 650 guests for cocktails outdoors in Heinz Hall Plaza and dinner either at Six Penn Kitchen for the Golden Soiree or PPG Wintergarden for the big-ticket ($600) Golden Gala. The Duquesne Club catered an elegant repast of beet terrine, rack of lamb and a chocolate delight at the Wintergarden, which sparkled with crystal, gold and red roses from Hepatica. By evening's end the grand total raised was an impressive $682,000.