Bringing Chamber Music to the Classroom: A Special Visit from the BKW Piano Trio

On Monday, March 23rd, students at NativityMiguel Middle School, one of Buffalo String Works’ partner schools, experienced a special visit from the BKW Piano Trio of Cleveland, Ohio. The trio was in Buffalo to perform at Kleinhans Music Hall as part of the Buffalo Chamber Music Society, and took time before their departure to connect with students through an intimate, in-school performance.

During their visit, the trio introduced students to the world of chamber music, sharing not only their artistry, but also insights into performance, collaboration, and the role music plays in their lives. Students listened to selections from composers including Ludwig van Beethoven, Jennifer Higdon, and Antonín Dvořák, and had the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about musicianship and the journey of becoming a professional artist.

Formed in 2023, the BKW Piano Trio is made up of three young graduates of the Cleveland Institute of Music: pianist Jacob Bernhardt, violinist Konrad Kowal, and cellist Nora Willauer. As part of the conservatory’s Advanced Piano Trio Program, they studied with renowned musicians including Sharon Robinson and Jaime Laredo of the Kalichstein–Laredo–Robinson Trio, as well as pianist Kathryn Brown.

Experiences like this offer students a unique window into the professional music world, bringing learning beyond the classroom and inspiring the next generation of musicians. We are grateful to the Buffalo Chamber Music Society, Isabel Ong, and the NativityMiguel administrative team for making this visit possible.