This Saturday, September 27, the Calgary Philharmonic presents one of its most-anticipated concerts of the 2025/2026 Season: An Evening with Lang Lang. The event marks the first time that the world-renowned pianist — one of a select group of soloists who have risen to superstar status in the classical music world — appears in Calgary, where he will perform Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Fifth Piano Concerto with the Orchestra and conductor Ramón Tebar.
Bringing in artists of this calibre is a major undertaking and would prove exceedingly difficult without the invaluable support of corporate sponsorship. In the case of An Evening with Lang Lang that support came from Nicola Weath, who are on board as the official Presenting Sponsor.
Nicola Weath’s involvement in An Evening with Lang Lang will come as no surprise to those familiar with its rich history of investment in the creative sector, which includes being Presenting Sponsor of The National Ballet of Canada’s mainstage productions and supporting the Splash Art Auction, which benefits Arts Umbrella and youth arts education. Earlier this year, they were recognized for their efforts in being named as the 2025 Corporate Champion of the Arts Award Recipient at the 46th Annual Business Arts Award.
Cassandra Cross, Wealth Advisor and Client Relationship Manager at Nicola Wealth spoke to the Calgary Phil blog about their arts-focused philanthropy and this weekend’s big show.
Nicola Wealth has a rich history of supporting arts and culture. Could you share about how and why this commitment to the creative sector became such an integral piece of Nicola Wealth’s philanthropic efforts?
Cassandra Cross: At Nicola Wealth, we see the arts not just as cultural enrichment, but as a cornerstone of legacy. Supporting the creative sector is a part of our broader commitment to building resilient, values-driven communities. It’s an investment in what matters: connection, inspiration, and the soul of society. This belief has become deeply woven into our firm’s values and is reflected in our long-standing partnerships with organizations that enrich Canadian cultural life. Many of us, myself included, grew up in families where creativity was celebrated — where free time often meant local theatre, gallery visits, or music lessons. That personal connection naturally became part of my professional ethos.
Congratulations to Nicola Wealth on being named as the 2025 Corporate Champion of the Arts Award Recipient. What does recognition mean to you?
CC: Thank you – we’re honoured to be recognized, not for the visibility it brings, but for the validation of our values. The Corporate Champion award reflects our belief that true wealth includes cultural impact and commitment to legacy. It’s a reminder that purpose-driven giving is as essential as financial stewardship. And candidly, it also validates something we’ve felt in our hearts for a long time – that when businesses lead with values, we all rise together.
In addition to the Calgary Philharmonic, you’ve thrown your support towards arts organizations such as the National Ballet of Canada and Arts Umbrella. Is there a common link between these groups that aligns with Nicola Wealth’s giving strategy?
CC: Absolutely. While these organizations differ in discipline and scale, they all share a dedication to excellence, innovation, and accessibility. Each organization we support shares a commitment to excellence, accessibility, and community leadership. Our giving strategy is rooted in deep planning and long-term impact, partnering with institutions that not only elevate the arts but also foster inclusive cultural legacies.
As Presenting Sponsor of the Calgary Phil’s highly anticipated An Evening with Lang Lang concert, what are you most excited about in regard to this event?
CC: Lang Lang is a global phenomenon whose artistry transcends genre and geography. His performance represents more than a concert; it’s a moment of shared inspiration. As presenting sponsor, we’re proud to help create access to world-class artistry, reinforcing our belief that real success includes cultural enrichment and collective joy. It’s a celebration of what connects us.
