Alice Tully Hall reverberated with the haunting talent, emotional depth, and dramatic stage presence of Russian-American classical piano virtuoso Lola Astanova. The prodigy started her musical studies at age six and began touring as a concert pianist at the age of eight, performing in Germany, France, Austria, Italy, and Russia in both solo programs and with orchestras.

Luxury Swiss watch manufacturer Ulysse Nardin presented the symphonic soiree, inviting renowned virtuoso conductor Jahja Ling and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s to join Astanova onstage in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff ’s Piano Concerto No. 2. She is the only virtuoso since Van Cliburn to play these two concertos consecutively in 15 years, making this one of her most anticipated performances. Astanova has written impressive virtuoso transcriptions of popular songs from classical to pop, including “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna, which became a YouTube sensation.

Following the performance, guests headed to the after-party at Doubles, where the clinks and cheers of cocktails and chatter created another congenial concert.

For 2013 and 2014, the Park Foundation is sponsoring Astanova in venues in the U.S. and Europe. The foundation supports many causes—medical and scientifi c research, family support, and the performing arts. Many well-known musicians are calling Ms. Astanova the modern-day Vladimir Horowitz.