BPO partners with Catholic Diocese of Buffalo to bring music to school students

Students from 17 Catholic schools will attend the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra's Feb. 3 "Music For Youth" program, in a special event called "Catholic Schools Day at the BPO." This event occurs during the annual Catholic Schools Week celebrated by the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo each year. The program, a reinvigoration of the partnership between the BPO and the diocese, begins at 10:15 a.m.

More than 1,600 students are expected to attend this morning youth concert from schools all over Western New York's eight counties. Also in attendance will be the Most Rev. Richard J. Malone, Th. D., bishop of Buffalo; and Catholic Schools Superintendent Sr. Carol Cimino and Secretary of Catholic Education Carol Kostyniak.

The program is designed for third- through sixth-grade students. It is titled "BPO Musical Passport." Music from America, Europe, Africa, Asia and South America will introduce students to musical forms, instruments of the orchestra, rhythms and melodies from around the world. This interactive program encourages participation through movement and active engagement, and combines music, geography and world cultures.

"The BPO is proud to partner with the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo once again," said Robin Parkinson, BPO director of education and community engagement. "This is a longstanding relationship that dates back over 20 years and we are pleased to continue this important connection to the Catholic Schools for many years to come."

As Buffalo's cultural ambassador, the Grammy Award-winning BPO, under the leadership of music director JoAnn Falletta, presents more than 100 concerts each year. Since 1940, the orchestra's home has been Kleinhans Music Hall, a National Historic Landmark with a reputation as one of the finest concert halls in the U.S.

For more information about the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, visit www.bpo.org.