BAM's 2023 Gala Honorees Spike Lee, David Byrne Symbolize New President's Vision

Gina Duncan has been president of the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) for a little over a year and is already making great strides. As the 162-year-old institution's first Black head, the New York native has infused new life into the programming with the racially charged classical music show “Everything Rises” and last month’s acclaimed star-studded gospel concert curated by Solange. The 2023 BAM gala will honor Spike Lee and David Byrne, alongside real estate attorney Claire Wood.

Duncan, who was previously BAM’s first vice president of film and strategic programming, emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals who have built a community around their work. She credits Spike Lee’s work as the catalyst for her pursuit of a career in the arts, celebrating his ability to shine a light on communities often underrepresented in film. Lee's extensive body of work, from “Do The Right Thing” to “She's Gotta Have It,” has helped him become a 'champion of Brooklyn.'

Duncan also notes her childhood admiration for David Byrne, a Talking Heads performer and avid cyclist who designed two sets of bike racks for BAM in front of the Peter Jay Sharp Building. The Scotland-born musician's collaboration with the non-profit institution includes the innovative 2015 “Contemporary Color” concert. Duncan appreciates Byrne’s tireless exploration of new artistic pursuits and his use of his platform to address pressing global issues.

As a BAM board of trustees member since 2005, Claire Wood has taken on a supportive role, welcoming Duncan at the start of her tenure and extending a helping hand to the entire institution. Leading the organization feels like a serendipitous opportunity for Duncan, who fondly recalls her first BAM concert experience with Questlove's “Shuffle Culture.” As both an audience member and a leader, BAM continues to feel like home for Gina Duncan.