Musicians United for ALS fundraiser scheduled for April 15 at SUNY Purchase

Purchase, NY On April 15^th a fundraising concert for ALS United Greater New York will take place at the Concert Hall at SUNY Purchase. The event will honor producer and engineer Wayne Warnecke, a Westchester native battling ALS. “Musicians United for ALS,” will feature an all-star lineup of musical talent and will raise funds to support those affected by the disease.

Organized by local musician Mickey Rosen, and supported by title sponsor the Lasdon Foundation, the evening will be emceed by Vincent Pastore of The Sopranos and led by arranger and producer Rob Mathes as musical director. The evening will feature well-known talent including:

• Patty Smyth (Scandal)

• Paul Shaffer (Late Show with David Letterman)

• Average White Band

• Lisa Fischer (Grammy winning R&B artist) 

• James D-Train Williams 

• Bob James (Grammy winning artist)

• ED Palermo Big Band

• Bernie Williams 

Several other performers are in discussion and will be announced in the coming weeks. In addition, Vaneese Thomas, Warnecke’s wife an acclaimed R&B/blues vocalist, will perform alongside her sister, Carla Thomas, the “Queen of Memphis Soul,” known for hits on Stax and Atlantic Records. The evening’s house band includes Shawn Pelton (Saturday Night Live), Will Lee (Letterman), Robbie Kondor, Oz Noy, Paul Shaffer, and Rob Mathes. Note, artists are subject to change. 

A silent auction will feature exclusive items, including a signed tennis ball from John McEnroe and guitars signed by Willie Nelson, Buddy Guy, and Joe Bonamassa. 

Warnecke, known for his work with artists like Chaka Khan, Patti Austin, and Luther Vandross, has been a pillar of the music community for decades. Diagnosed with ALS in 2022, he continues to inspire with his unwavering positivity and contributions to the industry, including producing Vaneese’s latest album, Stories in Blue.

Event Details

• What: Fundraising concert for ALS United Greater New York

• When: Tuesday, April 15, 2025

• Time: Cocktail Reception at 5:30, Performances start at 7:00 pm

• Where: The Concert Hall, SUNY Purchase, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY

• Ticket Prices: $215 - $250

• VIP Sponsorships: Available

• Ticket Link: https://alsunitedgreaternewyork.ticketspice.com/a-night-for-wayne 

• Contact: Louis Toscano at [email protected] or 845-507-2885.

The Platinum Sponsor for the evening is GMG Public Relations, Inc. 

“The evening will undoubtedly be one of love and joy as we celebrate Wayne and his incredible lifetime of accomplishments. We are grateful to everyone who has agreed to perform and support this concert. We look forward to a full house to raise as much money as possible for the NY ALS,” said Vaneese Thomas. 

"ALS United Greater New York is grateful to be a part of this incredible benefit concert to raise funds and awareness on behalf of the entire ALS community. Musicians United for ALS is not only a tribute to Wayne Warnecke, but it is also a tribute to every family impacted by ALS yesterday, today, and tomorrow. The generosity of these talented artists will help provide vital support for the services we offer—comprehensive local care to individuals and families living with ALS, supporting bold research initiatives, and advancing national and state advocacy. This concert is more than just a night of music; it is a powerful statement of unity, hope, and commitment to making a difference. Together, we end ALS." - Kristen Cocoman, president and CEO, ALS United Greater New York