Premium Blend to introduce kids to a cappella choirs

Premium Blend

The Children’s Concerts Series concludes season with the Fredonia School of Music's a cappella group, “Premium Blend,” on Saturday, April 9, at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. in the Dunkirk Free Library at 536 Central Ave., Dunkirk.

Planned with the help of SUNY Fredonia faculty who are experts in music and education, the concerts are designed to introduce very young audiences (from infants to 6-year-olds) to musical instruments.

The child-friendly environment will invite the children to sit on the floor close to the musicians; family members are encouraged to bring blankets or carpet squares to sit on. Strollers can be parked around the edges of the seating area.

“It is wonderful to see the college student’s enjoyment performing for the children, and to see the energy and excitement the children give in return. This venue gives preschool children a great chance to get close to the musicians and the music; to really participate and experience music intended just for them,” said Sarah Hamilton, associate professor of oboe and co-organizer.

Premium Blend, an a cappella choir, will perform at the Apr. 9 concert. The musicians are Fredonia School of Music students Cathie Ayers of Hilton; Eliza Vann of Trumansburg; Rachel Greenblatt of Smithtown; Abbey Hunt of Sea Cliff; Taylor Kelly of Greece; Anna Stanbro of Syracuse; Theresa Rutkowski of Syracuse; Caitlin Kopher of Massapequa; Hilda Myer of Fredonia; Ashley Pukalo of South Wales; Josh Wilmot of Skaneatles; Pete Esser of Brewster; Shawn Romero of Rochester; Brian O'Reilly of Rochester; Chris Piro of Pelham; Tony Scardace of Nesconset; James Mitaritonna of Ronkonkoma; Steve Scholtens of Cortlandt Manor; Harrison Schenkel of Sayville; and Kevin Hammill of Clarence.

“Our goal is to present an active, fun, music event that engages even the youngest children” said Katherine M. Levy, associate professor of music and co-organizer at the Fredonia School of Music. “Children’s Concerts help our excellent SUNY student musicians learn how young children respond to music at the same time as the young children who attend experience how live music moves and sounds and feels.”

The Children’s Concert Series is part of the Musical Journeys Program, a community outreach project offered by the Fredonia School of Music. More information is available at www.fredonia.edu/music/community/ccs.asp or call 716-673-4628.