Gerald has been a relentless advocate for From the Top, the preeminent showcase for young musicians, since he and Jennifer Hurley-Wales first conceived the idea in 1995. From the Top is America’s largest national platform dedicated to celebrating the stories, talents, and character of classically trained young musicians. Through live events, NPR and YouTube broadcasts, scholarships, and leadership programs, these extraordinary young people are empowered to engage and inspire music lovers of all ages. From the Top and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation award twenty $10,000 scholarships each year to exceptional young musicians with financial need”more than $2 million in scholarships has been awarded to date!

These classically trained musicians, ages 8 to 18, astonish audiences with their skill and talent. Their hard work, dedication and passion make them role models for their peers (and adults, too!). Yet, they are typical kids and teenagers, with normal worries and big dreams”and in this winning combination is the promise of a bright future, filled with the joy and hope that music offers to the world. The wildly bearded Gerald Slavet, a former real estate developer and Artistic Director of Wayside Theatre in Virginia, has served on the boards of New England Conservatory, the American Symphony Orchestra League and the National Foundation for Jewish Culture. He is intensely passionate about helping great kids achieve their potential and inspiring them to give back to their communities.