1 Cirque FIESTA!Fri Sep 27, 10:30am C | Sat Sep 28, 8pm A

John Morris Russell, conductorThe extraordinary artists of Cirque de la Symphonie return to Kleinhans Music Hall performing ethereal choreography to spectacular music with a captivating Latin flair. Aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, strongmen, and other all-stars of exceptional cirque programs throughout the world will transport you to a place of wonder as John Morris Russell opens the 2019-2020 BPO Pops season!

2 The Paul Simon SongbookSat Oct 12, 8pm B

Todd Craven, conductorPaul Simon changed the face of songwriting, from his years with Simon and Garfunkel through his solo albums. Experience his timeless songs including Bridge Over Troubled Water, Me and Julio Down by The Schoolyard, The Sound of Silence, 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, Graceland, and Rhythm of the Saints.

3 Byron’s Ragtime JazzSat Oct 26, 8pm A

Byron Stripling, conductorByron Stripling rejoins the BPO bringing his incomparable talent, wit, and charm to Kleinhans for another evening of jazzy musical stylings. The high-energy conductor and powerhouse trumpeter showcases the distinct influences of Jazz, Ragtime, and Blues on the American songbook.

4 Pops Goes to the MoviesFri Nov 8, 10:30am C | Sat Nov 9, 8pm B

John Morris Russell, conductorThe BPO brings silver screen soundtrack selections from your favorite action-adventure films to life, along with a few surprises.

5 The Beatles Classical Mystery TourFri Nov 22, 8pm | Sat Nov 23, 8pm A

Todd Craven, conductorFrom early Beatles music through the solo years, the exceptional portrayal of the Fab Four in Classical Mystery Tour brings the music of The Beatles to life, as four remarkable artists join your BPO in celebration of the 50th anniversary of both Abbey Road and Yellow Submarine.

6 John Morris Russell’s Holiday Pops

Thurs Dec 19, 10:30amFri Dec 20, 10:30am C

Sat Dec 21, 8pm A B | Sun Dec 22, 2:30pmJohn Morris Russell, conductorMr. Christmas brings his musical pack to Buffalo filled with spectacular new arrangements, merriment, and fun in his not-to-be-missed holiday extravaganza that will delight audiences of all ages. It’s Western New York’s most cherished family holiday tradition.

7 RESPECT: A Tribute to Aretha FranklinSat Feb 1, 8pm A B

Todd Craven, conductorIt takes a cast of three sensational vocalists to tell the FULL story of the one and only Queen of Soul. In her early childhood, Aretha’s father led the Friendship Baptist Church on Buffalo’s East Side before permanently relocating to Detroit, where she first sang during church services at age 10. Aretha Franklin went on to define contemporary Gospel, Blues, R&B, Jazz, and Rock over the last six decades.

10 Leslie Odom, Jr.Sat Apr 25, 8pm B

Todd Craven, conductorBe in the room where it happens as Hamilton star Leslie Odom, Jr. lights up Kleinhans with an evening of unforgettable music! The Tony® Award-winner’s symphonic show is a love letter to the American musical tradition.

11 Patriotic Stars and StripesFri May 22, 10:30am C | Sat May 23, 8pm A

John Morris Russell, conductorWestern New York’s premier Memorial Day tradition of inspiring music and pageantry, with the brilliant showmanship of John Morris Russell. The internationally renowned USO Show Troupe makes its BPO debut in this red, white, and blue spectacular.

12 Leading Ladies of BroadwaySat Jun 13, 8pm B

Todd Craven, conductorThe Great White Way has produced a host of iconic female talent, from actresses and singers to dancers and composers. The BPO and Broadway veterans perform the signature songs of those who have graced the footlights.

Byron’s Ragtime Jazz

Paul Simon Songbook

Leslie Odom, Jr.

The full Pops Master series includes concerts - Pops 7A

A

Pops 7BB

Coffee 6C

Coffee Concerts presented by

8 Nobody Does it Better: The Music of Marvin Hamlisch

Fri Feb 14, 10:30am C | Sat Feb 15, 8pm B

John Morris Russell, conductorLongtime friend and collaborator, Kevin Cole, joins John Morris Russell in tribute to the former BPO Pops conductor and composer. Marvin’s favorite singers join the BPO to celebrate the genius of one of America’s most beloved songwriters. The annual Sweetheart Dance tops off the evening dedicated to pure American entertainment.

9 The Doo Wop ProjectFri Mar 27, 10:30am C | Sat Mar 28, 8pm A

John Morris Russell, conductorThe stunning resurgence of pop a cappella traditions today has roots in the music of the 50s and 60s. The tight harmonies and soaring melodies of groups like The Imperials, The Belmonts, and The Platters influenced two generations of singers from the Beach Boys and Temptations to Boyz II Men and Pentatonix. Join the BPO for a retrospective of brilliant vocalism.

Passion, power, and pizzazz! From a breathtaking cirque extravaganza and thrilling Hollywood soundtracks, to ardent tributes to the kings and queens of American song, R&B, and jazz, Maestro John Morris Russell has packed the 2019-2020 Pops season with amazing concert experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Beatles Abbey Road, and experience the evolution of pop and rock bathed in the rich orchestral splendor of the BPO with familiar favorites you know and love.

John Morris Russell Principal Pops Conductor

Cirque fiesta!

p

hoto

Nat

han

John

son

p

hoto

Dav

id C

andl

ena

For more information, call (716)885-5000 | bpo.org193466

All programs subject to change.

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

n i n e t e e n | t w e n t y20