Western New York is home to rich musical history and talent. Our community has played a role in historical events and served as inspiration in music.
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
Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World”, Mvt. III “Scherzo”
by Antonín Dvořák
Dramatic music influenced by America’s landscape and indigenous musical traditions.
THE IROQUOIS SIX NATIONS AND DVOŘÁK
Learn how Native American melodies influenced Dvořák’s music.
Grades 3-6 suggested
Rabbit Dance
Traditional Native American song
Recorded on the Allegany Reservation
This is a companion video to Dvořák above.
Pure Note from Whistler Waves
by Caroline Mallonee
An inventive musical representation of the nature that is all around us by a Western New York composer.
MUSIC IN NATURE
Explore pitch and intonation through the science of vibration.
Grades 3-5 suggested
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
arr. by Harry Burleigh
Explore Buffalo’s role in the Underground Railroad through this familiar spiritual. Featuring local music educator, Karen Saxon.
SPIRITUALS ON THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
Discover the role spirituals and the Buffalo/Niagara region played in the Underground Railroad.
Grades 1-6 suggested
Invincible Eagle
by John Philip Sousa
March through history and the events that helped put Buffalo on the map.
FORM & HISTORY OF MARCH MUSIC
Buffalo’s connection to a famous Sousa march.
Grades 1-8 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.