Octogenarian to tickle ivories for good cause

New West Symphony supporter, board member and octogenarian piano student William G. Israel will perform in recital at 6 p.m., Sun., Oct. 14 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley. The former Beverly Hills attorney, who resumed serious piano study in 1998 after a hiatus since age 11, will be marking his 85th birthday. He and his wife, Nancy, are sponsoring the event as a fundraiser for the New West Symphony. His recital will include selections by Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, Sibelius and Joplin.

The event gets underway 5 p.m. with complimentary guided tours of the Reagan Library. A catered dinner and dancing to music donated by Bob Sofsky and his "Sugar Daddies" will follow Israel’s performance. A donation of $200 per person is requested, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting the symphony.

Israel’s goal is to raise $85,000 by offering recital sponsorships, in addition to the single donations by attendees. A regular sponsorship of $2,500 includes two admissions, a grand sponsorship of $5,000 includes four admissions, and a super grand sponsorship of $10,000 includes 10 admissions.

For tickets and further information, please call (805) 499-5256.