Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin has donated 1 million to the New York Philharmonic symphony orchestra.
The orchestra announced they had received the gift from the "30 Rock" star, just a couple days after his wedding. The Donation was given in honor of the orchestra's executive director Zarin Mehta, who concludes his 12-year tenure at the end of the 2011-12 season.
"I have loved classical music all of my life, but Zarin Mehta made my dream of becoming part of the world of classical music come true," said Baldwin in a statement today.
"I will miss working with him directly, but will always bear in mind his passion, commitment and insight as I continue my work with the New York Philharmonic. Zarin has my best wishes for the future, and I look forward to continuing our rich, musical friendship," he added.
Upon receiving the gift, the Mumbai-born conductor and Baldwin's longtime pal Mehta, 73, said that Baldwin's "remarkably generous gift is just the latest in his steadfast and inspiring support" of the Philharmonic.
Baldwin is currently a board member of the Philharmonic and hosts the organization's radio show "The New York Philharmonic This Week." According to the Philharmonic, the gift comes from his earnings from an advertising campaign for Capital One.
The 54-year-old actor married yoga instructor Hilaria Thomas in Manhattan last Saturday.
