Music from America, Europe, Africa, Asia and South America each has its own unique forms, instruments, and rhythms and melodies.
The Erie Canal Song: Low Bridge, Everybody Down
by Thomas S. Allen
arr. by Jay Matthews
Explore the history of the Erie Canal through this fun, silly song! Featuring local music educator, Karen Saxon.
THE ERIE CANAL SONG
Discover the impact of the Erie Canal on New York State and the United States.
Grades 1-4 suggested
The Magic Flute Overture
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Mozart lived in Europe, which is the birthplace of the orchestra.
MELODIES AROUND THE WORLD
Learn about Western diatonic scales and melodies in Mozart’s music.
Grades 1-4 suggested
Africa, Mvt. III “Land of Superstition”
by William Grant Still
An exciting rhythmic feature celebrating African culture and heritage.
RHYTHMS AROUND THE WORLD
Rhythm is central in driving a steady beat in African music.
Grades 1-4 suggested
“Feast” from Arabic Suite
by Agnes Bashir
Middle Eastern melodies come together in this celebratory dance-song.
MELODIES AROUND THE WORLD
Become familiar with modal scales in traditional Arab music.
Grades 1-4 suggested
Flower Drum Song from Feng Yang from Folk Songs for Orchestra
by Huang Ruo
Folk songs reflect the life, culture and soul of a civilization.
MELODIES AROUND THE WORLD
The pentatonic scale provides the melodic foundation for much of the music of Asian cultures.
Grades 1-4 suggested
Brasil
by Ary Barroso
One of the most representative works of the country of Brazil, this popular song is responsible for ushering in a new genre of samba.
RHYTHMS AROUND THE WORLD
Discover the clavé rhythm in Latin American dance music.
Grades 1-4 suggested
Ellington Fantasy
by Duke Ellington
Composer Duke Ellington is famous for popularizing American jazz music.
RHYTHMS AROUND THE WORLD
Jazz music is characterized by improvisation, swing and syncopated rhythms.
Grades 1-4 suggested
Sabre Dance
by Aram Khachaturian
One of the most recognizable works worldwide with a special connection to Buffalo’s sports community.
Instruments Around the World
Identify characteristics of each instrument family in the orchestra and explore musical instruments of other cultures around the world.
INSTRUMENTS AROUND THE WORLD
Explore instrument families of the orchestra and make connections to other musical instruments from cultures around the world.
Grades 1-4 suggested
#PlayOnWNY
Choose and practice an instrument along with BPO musicians through the #PlayOnWNY series featuring 70+ videos.
#SingOnWNY
Learn the fundamentals of singing with the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus.
Symphony Hall Pass
Designed to be a flexible season concert pass for high school students to enjoy BPO performances at a discounted rate. Only $29 per student and free for Buffalo Public School students.
BPO Teaching Artists
Bring unique arts engagement into your classroom or virtual learning through the dynamism of the BPO’s professional musicians.
Music Education Resources
Access additional music education resources.
Education Sponsors
Education programs are made possible through generous annual donations and significant investment from the BPO.