At Wednesday night's star-studded benefit 'The Music of R.E.M. at Carnegie Hall,' New Yorkers were given a real treat -- an unannounced appearance by the evening's honorees, the boys from Athens, Ga. themselves, who took the stage with Patti Smith for their track 'E-Bow the Letter.'

With Michael Stipe dressed as the preacher to Patti Smith's yogic chanter, both musicians spoke of their shared love and influence on each other, with Smith exclaiming that Stipe was "there for me when I was down, and I ain't never been down since." Although Smith faltered partway through 'New Test Leper,' her voice and spirit soared through the night, as Stipe explained that Smith's version of 'Gloria' inspired the mention of Jesus in the opening lines of 'New Test Leper.'

This unexpected appearance by Messrs. Stipe, Buck and Mills capped off a night of pure beauty and artistic collaboration, with all proceeds going toward musical education programs for underprivileged youth.

Calexico served as the evening's backing band, performing with the likes of Bob Mould for his rousing cover of 'Sitting Stick' and Keren-Ann for her haunting rendition of 'Man on the Moon.' Members of TV on the Radio also made an unannounced appearance, joining Calexico and Tom Waits favorite Jolie Holland for a warmly husky version of '(Don't Go Back to) Rockville.'

The enthusiastic crowd was also treated to a rare appearance by the recently reunited Feelies, whose take on 'Carnival of Sorts (Box Cars)' was a pinnacle in a night full of mesmerizing highlights. Other performers included power pop favorites the Apples in Stereo, Irish troubadour Glen Hansard, and Kimya Dawson, who took the stage accompanied by a troupe of interpretive dancers.