In January 2025, we launched a community-driven process to shape our next three years. With input from students, families, teachers, staff, and supporters, we’ve created a bold new strategic plan to strengthen our programs, expand access, and deepen our impact.
Read MoreThank you to everyone who supported Buffalo String Works this year! Your generosity has advanced music education and inspired young musicians. Executive Director Melinda Smith highlights the impact of your support in expanding access and nurturing creativity. We’re grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing this work together.
Students at Niagara Street Afterschool Program paused classes for BSW’s first alternative programming week, which included a visual storytelling workshop, a Suzuki Violinists of Western New York side-by-side performance, and a painting workshop. Buffalo String Works strives to provide more than music by supporting students to explore creativity and interests through different learning experiences.
On March 28th, Asbury Hall was filled with music, conversation, and connection as Buffalo String Works welcomed over 125 guests to its spring benefit, the BSW Soirée! The evening raised $14,154 to support free, high-quality music education for refugee, immigrant, and historically marginalized youth in Buffalo.
Read MoreOur Healing Ourselves Youth Fellows are stepping into leadership roles to foster conversations on mental health and identity within our program. Trained through the Coalition for Asian American Children and Families (CACF) initiative, these student leaders are now facilitating peer-led workshops that create a safe space for dialogue, healing, and self-discovery. Through their work, they are breaking down stigmas, strengthening community bonds, and empowering their peers to embrace their identities with confidence.
Read MoreLast year, we embarked on an exciting collaboration with Wai Hin Ko Ko, a PhD candidate in composition at UC Berkeley. His mission? To create a piece specifically for our students—one that brings to life the diverse musical traditions of Myanmar. Recently, our Teaching Artists played through the piece for the first time, offering a glimpse into what’s to come.
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