Lesbian
Trans
People of Color
Drag Queen/King
On December 2, 2025, acclaimed singer-songwriter Vance Gilbert brings his soulful voice and heartfelt artistry to the stage with a powerful rendition of “Falling”, originally made famous by R&B icon Melba Moore. This intimate performance was recorded live at the Mazzoni Center Honors, an annual celebration recognizing LGBTQ+ allies and legends who have helped shape music, theater, and culture.
Watch the video:
A Tribute to a Musical Legend
Melba Moore’s legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. With a career spanning decades, she has achieved status as a Tony Award winner, a three-time Grammy nominee, and an outspoken LGBTQ+ ally. Known for hits like “This Is It” and “Love’s Comin’ at Ya,” she has also graced Broadway stages in landmark productions like Hair and Purlie. The song “Falling,” written by Franne Golde and Gene McFadden, remains one of her most emotionally resonant performances, reaching #1 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Singles Chart.
Vance Gilbert’s performance offers a moving homage, not just to Melba’s voice, but to her role as a trailblazer for both Black and LGBTQ+ communities. Known for his blend of folk, jazz, and soul influences, Gilbert’s emotive version of “Falling” adds a contemporary interpretation while honoring its timeless roots.
About the Mazzoni Center
The Mazzoni Center, located in Philadelphia, is a pillar of LGBTQ+ healthcare and wellness. Combining comprehensive medical care with social and legal services, the center stands at the forefront of affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals in the region. Their work includes HIV care and prevention, trans health services, gender-affirming hormone therapy, mental health support, and legal advocacy.
Founded in 1979, Mazzoni Center continues to be a sanctuary and resource for thousands in the LGBTQ+ community—particularly those who face systemic barriers to care. They offer culturally competent, community-centered care that affirms identity and celebrates diversity.
What Is Mazzoni Center Honors?
Mazzoni Center Honors is an annual celebration that highlights and uplifts trailblazers in the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Held at the esteemed Marian Anderson Hall at The Kimmel Center, this year’s third-annual event honored Melba Moore for her decades-long contributions to music, culture, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Past honorees and guests have included artists, activists, and leaders who embody the spirit of visibility, equity, and community transformation.
The event is also a major fundraiser for Mazzoni Center’s essential programs. By honoring figures like Moore, the Center not only preserves LGBTQ+ cultural legacy but ensures the continuation of vital services for the most vulnerable.
Support the Work
The life-saving work done at Mazzoni Center wouldn’t be possible without community support. Viewers moved by Gilbert’s performance or inspired by Moore’s legacy can make a direct impact by donating at:
www.mazzonicenter.org/donate
A Celebration of Identity, Artistry, and Community
In a world where LGBTQ+ communities continue to face political, economic, and social challenges, events like Mazzoni Center Honors remind us of the power of music, legacy, and solidarity. Vance Gilbert’s performance of “Falling” is more than a tribute—it’s a call to recognize and celebrate the intersection of identity and art.
Stay tuned for more performances, reflections, and stories from the heart of the LGBTQ+ community.
Watch the video:
A Tribute to a Musical Legend
Melba Moore’s legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. With a career spanning decades, she has achieved status as a Tony Award winner, a three-time Grammy nominee, and an outspoken LGBTQ+ ally. Known for hits like “This Is It” and “Love’s Comin’ at Ya,” she has also graced Broadway stages in landmark productions like Hair and Purlie. The song “Falling,” written by Franne Golde and Gene McFadden, remains one of her most emotionally resonant performances, reaching #1 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Singles Chart.
Vance Gilbert’s performance offers a moving homage, not just to Melba’s voice, but to her role as a trailblazer for both Black and LGBTQ+ communities. Known for his blend of folk, jazz, and soul influences, Gilbert’s emotive version of “Falling” adds a contemporary interpretation while honoring its timeless roots.
About the Mazzoni Center
The Mazzoni Center, located in Philadelphia, is a pillar of LGBTQ+ healthcare and wellness. Combining comprehensive medical care with social and legal services, the center stands at the forefront of affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals in the region. Their work includes HIV care and prevention, trans health services, gender-affirming hormone therapy, mental health support, and legal advocacy.
Founded in 1979, Mazzoni Center continues to be a sanctuary and resource for thousands in the LGBTQ+ community—particularly those who face systemic barriers to care. They offer culturally competent, community-centered care that affirms identity and celebrates diversity.
What Is Mazzoni Center Honors?
Mazzoni Center Honors is an annual celebration that highlights and uplifts trailblazers in the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Held at the esteemed Marian Anderson Hall at The Kimmel Center, this year’s third-annual event honored Melba Moore for her decades-long contributions to music, culture, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Past honorees and guests have included artists, activists, and leaders who embody the spirit of visibility, equity, and community transformation.
The event is also a major fundraiser for Mazzoni Center’s essential programs. By honoring figures like Moore, the Center not only preserves LGBTQ+ cultural legacy but ensures the continuation of vital services for the most vulnerable.
Support the Work
The life-saving work done at Mazzoni Center wouldn’t be possible without community support. Viewers moved by Gilbert’s performance or inspired by Moore’s legacy can make a direct impact by donating at:
www.mazzonicenter.org/donate
A Celebration of Identity, Artistry, and Community
In a world where LGBTQ+ communities continue to face political, economic, and social challenges, events like Mazzoni Center Honors remind us of the power of music, legacy, and solidarity. Vance Gilbert’s performance of “Falling” is more than a tribute—it’s a call to recognize and celebrate the intersection of identity and art.
Stay tuned for more performances, reflections, and stories from the heart of the LGBTQ+ community.
