Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
Legal Name (if Different): Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Society, Inc.
Also Known As: BPO
Mailing Address: 786 Delaware Avenue
City: Buffalo
State: NY
Postal Code: 14209
Main Phone: (716) 242-7825
Main Fax: (716) 885-9372
Organization Website: https://bpo.org/
Employer ID Number: 16-0755739
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/17/2025
Requested Amount: 5,000

Project Title: BPO High School Symphony Hall Pass
Project Description:

In a city as diverse as Buffalo, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra sees firsthand the wide range of experiences and backgrounds that shape our community. We also see how many young people feel that live symphonic music isn’t for them—not because they wouldn’t love it, but because they’ve never had the chance to feel like they belong. The High School Symphony Hall Pass is changing that.

For just $29, students get a season pass to nearly all BPO Classics, Pops, and Rock performances, along with backstage access, artist meet-and-greets, teen nights, volunteer opportunities, and a dedicated online hub for resources and special events. But beyond affordability, this program is about breaking down barriers—not just financial ones, but the invisible ones that tell young people “this isn’t your space.”

The earlier we reach students, the better. And what makes the Symphony Hall Pass unique is that it gives high schoolers the freedom to come on their own or with friends—no need to wait for a school field trip or a family outing. How cool is it that on a Saturday night, teens can hang out with their friends at Kleinhans Music Hall, immersed in a world-class cultural experience?

Total Project Budget: $84,525

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Ticket Income – $7,105.00 Private Donor – $10,000.00 BPO Next Gen Education Fund – $35,000.00

Project Duration: 2025/2026 season (September 2025 – June 2026)
Geographical Area Served: Western New York
Age Group To Be Served: 13-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: Franziska
Contact Last Name: Macur
Contact Title: Annual Fund and Grants Manager
Contact Phone: (716) 242-7825
Contact Email: fmacur@bpo.org