Gainesville Apollo Theater winner returns home for benefit concert supporting local history

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - A Gainesville musician who made history at New York City’s legendary Apollo Theater returned to his hometown to help raise money for a local cultural institution.

Award-winning saxophonist Emmanuel Garilus headlined a benefit concert at Trinity United Methodist Church, with performances by the chorus 1,000 Voices of Florida.

The concert featured gospel, jazz, R&B and soul music, bringing the community together in support of the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center.

Garilus made history in 2025 when he became the first saxophonist to win the Grand Finale of Amateur Night at the Apollo. He earned first place in every round of the competition.

His accomplishments were also recognized by the City of Gainesville, which presented him with a proclamation in 2025.

Proceeds from the concert will support the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center’s mission to preserve and share African American history and cultural heritage throughout Gainesville and North Central Florida.

Organizers said the fundraiser was an opportunity to celebrate local musical talent while supporting the museum’s ongoing preservation and educational efforts.

The museum works to ensure the region’s African American history remains accessible to future generations.

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