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`A Concert for Healing` image courtesy of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
"A Concert for Healing" image courtesy of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra & BPO Diversity Council present free 'A Concert for Healing'

Submitted

Tue, Jun 14th 2022 03:25 pm

At Johnnie B. Wiley Pavilion on July 24

√ Local vocalists Sirgourney Cook and Rev. Julian Armand Cook join tribute to Buffalo mass-shooting victims

In the spirit of providing comfort and hope to all affected by the recent mass-shooting tragedy in the Buffalo community, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and the BPO Diversity Council announce “A Concert for Healing.” The event will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 24, at the Johnnie B. Wiley Pavilion (1100 Jefferson Ave.).

This free performance, conducted by Maestro JoAnn Falletta along with Assistant Conductor Jaman E. Dunn, will feature the full orchestra and local vocalists Sirgourney Cook and Rev. Julian Armand Cook performing music that allows for moments of quiet reflection and celebrates the resiliency of the City of Good Neighbors – including Adolphus Hailstork’s “Three Spirituals” and “Fanfare on Amazing Grace,” and William Grant Still’s “Mother and Child.”

“Our BPO musicians share in the devastation and grief that this recent tragedy has brought to our community, and are eager to give back in the way we best know how – through our music,” Falletta said. “We recognize the healing power of music in the most troubling of times. We wish to extend our hearts and bring together the entire community through this special performance.”

Johnnie B. Wiley Pavilion Director Cedric Holloway said, “Our community has been through so much and deserves a respite from the devastation. The BPO has generously offered to provide an artistic opportunity for our families. It’s an excellent time for us to heal through music. The BPO has been, and continues to be, a great partner for the Johnnie B. Wiley Amateur Athletic Sports Pavilion.”

Comprised of community leaders, BPO staff, and musicians, the BPO Diversity Council was formed in May 2016, formalizing the orchestra’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity, diversity, equity and access within the BPO. “A Concert for Healing” is one of several events and initiatives the council has organized this season to engage with the Western New York community in meaningful ways.

“The BPO is here for the community, the entire community,” BPO Diversity Council Chair Rev. Melody Rutherford said. “Our community is still reeling from this recent devastating act. It is so important in this moment for us to unite our minds, our bodies and our souls through our universal language of love, music, and provide hope and healing to all who need it.”

“A Concert for Healing” is free and open to the public. No tickets or reservations are required. The concert is part of a collaborative weekend of music on the east side of Buffalo, which includes the longstanding Gospel Fest on July 23 at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park.

Patrons with questions are encouraged to call the BPO box office at 716-885-5000 between the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Information on the full program will be available at bpo.org.

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