JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Tim McAllister, saxophone

COPLAND  El Salón México
ADOLPHUS HAILSTORK  Concerto for Saxophone (World Premiere)
GINASTERA  Variaciones concertantes
BERNSTEIN  Symphonic Dances from West Side Story

Join JoAnn Falletta and the BPO for a vibrant celebration of American music, starting with Copland’s El Salón México, a piece that captures the spirit and rhythms of Mexican dance halls. The concert features the world premiere of Adolphus Hailstork’s Concerto for Saxophone, performed by the exceptional Tim McAllister, promising a work of great emotion and virtuosity that explores the saxophone’s expressive range. Ginastera’s Variaciones concertantes offers a showcase of Argentine musical traditions, while Bernstein’s Symphonic Dances from West Side Story close the evening with thrilling, jazz-infused melodies and the drama of New York’s city streets. This program highlights the diversity and innovation of American music, celebrating its power to tell stories and evoke vivid landscapes.

Bradley Thachuk, conductor
Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus

The BPO’s Patriotic Pops concert is an annual Memorial Day weekend tradition that pays tribute to the contributions and sacrifices of America’s military personnel. Conducted by Bradley Thachuk and featuring the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus, this concert is a stirring salute to the spirit of America, highlighting the music that has defined and celebrated the country’s values over the centuries. From the rousing marches of John Philip Sousa to the poignant strains of “America the Beautiful,” the program is designed to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the enduring ideals for which so many have served. Join us for this moment of reflection, appreciation, and patriotic pride, as we honor those who have dedicated themselves to our nation’s defense.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Andrea Cicalese, violin

BARTÓK  The Miraculous Mandarin Suite
GLAZUNOV  Violin Concerto
DVOŘÁK  Symphony No. 6

Embark on a musical voyage through Eastern Europe with JoAnn Falletta and the BPO, beginning with Bartók’s The Miraculous Mandarin, a ballet score that pulses with energy and exoticism. Andrea Cicalese, a violinist known for his exquisite lyricism and technical precision, takes center stage with Glazunov’s Violin Concerto, a work that beautifully melds Russian romanticism with virtuosic flair. The program culminates with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 6, a piece that pays homage to the Czech composer’s homeland, its melodies infused with the spirit and rhythms of Czech folk music. This concert is a celebration of the rich musical heritage of Eastern Europe, offering a journey through its vibrant landscapes and deep traditions.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Nikki Chooi, violin

JESSIE MONTGOMERY  Snapshots
BEHZAD RANJBARAN  Violin Concerto
SIBELIUS  Symphony No. 1

Jessie Montgomery’s vibrant Snapshots, a 2023 BPO co-commissioned work, captures the playful essence of childhood under a looming storm, setting a dynamic opening with its lively and spirited melodies. The program then transitions to the contemporary colors of Behzad Ranjbaran’s Violin Concerto, performed by BPO concertmaster Nikki Chooi. Chooi’s interpretation promises to be a deep, soulful exploration of Ranjbaran’s Persian-influenced themes, a testament to the violinist’s technical prowess and emotive depth. The evening culminates with Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1, a masterpiece that conjures the stark beauty and profound solitude of the Finnish landscape. This concert promises an immersive journey through contrasting musical terrains, each piece a reflection of its cultural roots and historical moments. 

Jason Seber, conductor

Bette, Babs & Beyond is a dynamic tribute to the legendary women who have shaped the music industry. Conducted by Jason Seber, the BPO is joined by a stellar cast of vocalists to celebrate the iconic songs of Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand, Cher, Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin, Dolly Parton, Carole King, Tina Turner, and more. This concert is a journey through the hits that made these women superstars, performed with the passion and power they deserve. It’s a journey of emotional highs, unforgettable melodies, and the stories of the remarkable women behind the music. Prepare to honor the trailblazers with performances that are simply the best.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Susan Platts, mezzo-soprano

STRAVINSKY  Pulcinella Suite
RAVEL  Shéhérazade
STRAVINSKY  The Faun and the Shepherdess
STRAVINSKY  Song of the Nightingale

An evening dedicated to the exploration of storytelling through music, featuring the works of Stravinsky and Ravel. The concert begins with Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite, a vibrant reimagining of 18th-century Italian commedia dell’arte. Mezzo-soprano Susan Platts lends her exquisite voice to Ravel’s Shéhérazade, a mesmerizing evocation of the exotic tales of the Arabian Nights. The program also includes Stravinsky’s The Faun and the Shepherdess and Song of the Nightingale, each work showcasing his unparalleled ability to create musical narratives that capture the imagination. This concert promises a journey into the heart of musical fables, brought to life by the BPO’s artistic brilliance.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Marcin Zdunik, cello

TCHAIKOVSKY  Sleeping Beauty Suite
TCHAIKOVSKY  Variations on a Rococo Theme
TCHAIKOVSKY  Symphony No. 6, “Pathétique”

The Tchaikovsky Festival reaches its emotional zenith with the Sleeping Beauty Suite, Variations on a Rococo Theme, and Symphony No. 6, “Pathétique.” The enchanting melodies of the ballet suite give way to the virtuosic demands of the Rococo Variations, showcasing Marcin Zdunik’s profound artistry. The festival concludes with Symphony No. 6, Tchaikovsky’s final and most profound symphony, reflecting the full spectrum of human emotion. This weekend promises a deep dive into the soul of Tchaikovsky, presenting his most personal and introspective works in a celebration of his musical legacy. 

Tony DeSare, conductor and vocals

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the timeless allure of Frank Sinatra’s music, brought to life by Tony DeSare. Sinatra in Love offers a fresh interpretation of the legendary singer’s most beloved tunes, including “Night and Day” and “New York, New York.” DeSare, both conducting and performing, captures the smooth, swingin’ essence of Sinatra while adding his unique charm and style to the mix. This concert is a romantic journey through Sinatra’s vast catalog, promising an experience filled with love, nostalgia, and the unforgettable melodies that made Sinatra a musical icon. The celebration continues with the Annual Sweetheart Dance after Saturday’s performance, inviting couples to create their own memories swaying to the sounds of Ol’ Blue Eyes.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Sheng Cai, piano

TCHAIKOVSKY  Capriccio Italien
STRAVINSKY  The Fairy’s Kiss
TCHAIKOVSKY  Piano Concerto No. 2

The Tchaikovsky Festival begins with an evening that showcases the breadth of Tchaikovsky’s musical genius. The concert opens with the vibrant and celebratory Capriccio Italien, inspired by Tchaikovsky’s travels. Canadian pianist Sheng Cai, known for his nuanced interpretations and technical brilliance, brings to life the seldom-performed Piano Concerto No. 2, a work rich with melodic invention and demanding virtuosity. Stravinsky’s The Fairy’s Kiss, a tribute to Tchaikovsky’s influence, weaves excerpts from his lesser-known works into a poignant homage. This program invites audiences to explore the legacy of Tchaikovsky through the lens of both his own compositions and those he inspired.

JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Jacek Muzyk, French horn
Andrea Bickford, soprano
Lynne McMurtry, contralto
Jordan Pitts, tenor
Valerian Ruminski, baritone
Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus

MOZART  Overture to Don Giovanni
MOZART  Horn Concerto No. 2
MOZART  Requiem

Mozart’s final works illuminate the stage in this profound program, opening with the dramatic overture to Don Giovanni, a vivid depiction of the infamous libertine’s final moments. The evening’s journey continues with Horn Concerto No. 2, showcasing BPO principal Jacek Muzyk’s mastery of the horn’s rich tones. The heart of the concert is Mozart’s Requiem, a work shrouded in mystery and unfulfilled promises, performed by a stellar cast of soloists alongside the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus. This concert is a tribute to the genius of Mozart, exploring themes of mortality, redemption, and the eternal quest for understanding.