Lifetime Achievement Award

The Musical Fund Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award is presented annually to an individual whose extensive body of work represents a significant contribution to the cultural life and musical community of the city of Philadelphia. Founded in 1820, the Musical Fund Society of Philadelphia is the oldest continuing musical organization in the United States.  MFS supports and enhances the rich musical life of the city and beyond through its programs and services to members, grants to nonprofit musical organizations, awards to accomplished artists, and partnerships with others in the performing arts.  First bestowed in 2001, MFS’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes the remarkable accomplishments of its recipients, whose places are firmly established in the musical legacy of Philadelphia.

2024 – Jeffrey Cornelius, Diane Monroe

2023 – Philip Maneval

2022 – Vera Wilson

2021 – David Devan

2019 – Leon Bates

2018 – Richard Woodhams

2017 – Richard Wernick

2016 – Henry & Yumi Scott

2015 – James D. Freeman

2014 – Jennifer Higdon

2013 – Robert Capanna

2011 – Helen Kwalwasser & Harvey Wedeen

2010 – Sidney & Shirley Curtiss

2009 – Alan Harler

2008 – Otto-Werner Mueller

2007 – Christofer Macatsoris

2006 – Luis Biava

2005 – George Crumb

2004 – Helen L. Laird & Edith A. Reinhardt

2003 – Peter Benoliel

2002 – Anthony P. Checchia

2001 – Daniel Webster