The Capital City’s Cultural And Philanthropic Communities Gathered At Assembly Hall For Conspirare’s “Still We Sing”-Themed Gala, Where Unforgettable Performances, Spirited Generosity, And Heartfelt Tributes Helped Create A Record-Breaking Night For The GRAMMY® Award-Winning Organization

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Bells & Whistles Productions

THE SCENE: Assembly Hall in East Austin was the setting for an incredible night of good food, great company, and amazing music. A sold-out crowd featuring 225 of the capital city’s most notable community leaders, music patrons, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for “Hidden Music” 2026. Benefiting Conspirare, the “Still We Sing”-themed night delivered one show-stopping moment after another, resulting in a record-breaking fundraiser for the organization.

THE VIBE: The Austin-chic crowd featuring guests sporting an array of elegant, yet accessible looks ideal for a night of transformative music. In the crowd, traditional cocktail fare seamlessly mixed with bold colors, pastels, and prints. The result was a beautiful, eclectic, and electric environment where everyone felt welcome.

Kicking off the night was a cocktail hour al fresco on the Assembly Hall Terrace. After cozying up at the bar to grab their favorite spirit, guests mingled and took advantage of the beautiful Spring evening, brimming with anticipation for the fun ahead. Many took the opportunity to pose for photos with Conspirare Founder Craig Hella Johnson to commemorate the evening.

Patrons then headed inside to their seats for dinner and the main program. As guests dined on a delectable, family-style meal courtesy of Crave Catering, they were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of such a special evening. Additionally, Marvin Brittman was honored for his long-term support and advocacy for the organization, resulting in a standing ovation from the audience.

Auctioneer Kimberly Niezgoda then took to the stage for a spirited live auction. Paddles rose for an array of one-of-a-kind trips and experiences, with an Austin Culinary Odyssey and a dinner hosted by Austin philanthropists Forrest Preece and Linda Ball among the most popular items among guests. The highlight of the live auction was a dinner for six guests with Conspirare Founder Craig Hella Johnson and his husband Phil Overbaugh, which sold three times for $12,000 each.

Craig Hella Johnson then took to the stage for a moving concert. The legendary composer charmed and entertained the audience with an array of moving musical performances against the backdrop of an extra-large monitor that displayed images that underscored the music Johnson performed, dazzling the guests.

Following the concert, the auctioneer returned to the stage to lead a spirited Paddles-Up, which drove the fundraising total even higher. The night concluded where it began, on the Assembly Hall Terrace, for bite-sized desserts and champagne, allowing guests to toast a beautiful, successful night for the Austin music and philanthropic scene.

THE NON-PROFIT: Hidden Music 2026: Still We Sing raised a record-breaking $357,000 for Conspirare. Proceeds from the events will fund music programs and performances to further the organization’s mission to use the power of music to change lives, inspire peace, and foster belonging. Since its founding in the 1990’s, the GRAMMY® Award-winning Conspirare ensemble of world-class performers has created indelible musical art, including the critically-acclaimed Considering Matthew Shepherd.

Here Are 7 Reasons Conspirare’s Hidden Music Gala Was One Of Austin’s Most Magical Nights Of The Year…

• Assembly Hall Set The Stage Perfectly
  The East Austin venue provided an intimate yet sophisticated backdrop for an evening centered on music, connection, and philanthropy.
• The Austin-Chic Crowd Brought Effortless Style
  Guests embraced elegant cocktail attire mixed with bold colors, prints, and relaxed sophistication that perfectly reflected Austin’s creative spirit.
• Cocktail Hour Under The Stars Created Instant Energy
  Revelers gathered al fresco on the Assembly Hall Terrace, sipping cocktails, mingling, and posing for photos with Conspirare Founder Craig Hella Johnson.
• A Standing Ovation Honored Marvin Brittman
  One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments came when Marvin Brittman was recognized for his longtime support and advocacy for Conspirare.
• The Live Auction Sparked Spirited Bidding
  Guests eagerly competed for luxury experiences, including an Austin Culinary Odyssey and an intimate dinner hosted by philanthropists Forrest Preece and Linda Ball.
• Craig Hella Johnson Delivered A Mesmerizing Performance
  The legendary composer captivated the audience with an emotional concert, enhanced by stunning visuals projected behind him throughout.
• The Night Ended With Champagne And Record-Breaking Impact
  Guests returned to the terrace for desserts and champagne as they celebrated a record-breaking $357,000 raised to support Conspirare’s transformative music programs and performances.