Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra offers free tickets to furloughed federal employees, veterans, military families

In order to maintain access to arts during times of economic stress, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra is offering two free tickets to furloughed federal employees, veterans, and military families for the first BPO concert of 2019.

On Thursday, Jan. 17 (7 p.m.), the BPO presents “Kurt Weill’s Broadway,” with special guests Lisa Vroman and the Hudson Shad vocal quartet. Through music, narrative and images, the audience will learn the story of Weill’s flight from the Nazis and his journey toward becoming a leading light of 1940s Broadway.

Two complimentary tickets will be provided to anyone with a federal government or military ID on a first-come, first-served basis. Present ID at the BPO box office at Kleinhans Music Hall to claim tickets.

The free tickets will be available even if the government reopens prior to the concert.

“Since federal employees, veterans and military families have had their incomes sharply reduced in the face of the government shutdown, they’ve had to forego the pleasures of live music during a time when they may need it the most,” said Patrick O’Herron, director of marketing for the orchestra. “Every time this orchestra has asked for the support of the community, they’ve delivered. We felt it was important to give back.” 

About the BPO

As Buffalo's cultural ambassador, the Grammy Award-winning Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, 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. During Falletta’s tenure, the BPO has rekindled its history of radio broadcasts and recordings, including the release of 46 new recordings on the Naxos and Beau Fleuve labels.

For more information about the BPO, visit www.bpo.org.