This week marks the seventh session of "Rockabilly 2 Rachmaninoff," our captivating collaborative series that brings you unique insights and stories from different guests associated with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. As a reminder, new episodes in this special series drop every two months on the second Saturday.

In this week's edition, we're spotlighting the Buffalo United Community Choir (BUCC) with guests Karen Saxon and George Brown. Founded in January 2023 by the BPO Diversity Council, BUCC unites the Buffalo-Niagara region through the transformative power of music.

This dynamic, 100+ member choir features voices from over 50 local churches and organizations, truly embodying the spirit and rich diversity of Buffalo. Under the brilliant artistic leadership of Ella E. Robinson, Karen Saxon, and George Brown, BUCC has delivered stirring, soulful performances—collaborating with the BPO at Kleinhans Music Hall and lifting spirits across the community.

The choir proudly lives by its inspiring motto: "We lift our voices in song as ONE community."

I sat down with Karen and George on June 12 at the corporate offices of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for a wonderful, engaging conversation you won't want to miss.

Want to learn more? You can find more information on the BUCC, including a full biography, at BPO.org

This week's episode, was recorded remote from the Onöhsagwë:de' Cultural Center (Seneca Iroquois National Museum) in Salamanca, NY, where we explored Native American music, dance and culture with Alan Dowdy, the museum's Lead Cultural Interpreter.

Alan is a member of the Tuscarora Nation, Turtle Clan and was born and raised on the Seneca Allegany Territory where he resides with his family. He and his girlfriend have six children who are heavily active in their way of life—singing, dancing, ceremonies, and sports. Alan's two sons play their traditional game of lacrosse, and his daughters play softball. They all hunt, fish, and harvest food from the garden, woods, and river.

This week's edition of the podcast was recorded live from the Town of Tonawanda Public Library (Kenmore Branch) on Wednesday, June 17 to celebrate Kenmore Porchfest. Founder Eric Nagel was there to talk about the incredible grassroots festival that transforms local front porches into vibrant community stages. Since its kickoff in 2021, Porchfest has grown every year, bringing neighbors together for an unforgettable day of music and community spirit.

Joining the fun is special musical guest akloh.! After diving full-time into music in late 2023, akloh. has taken the WNY scene by storm, even taking home Buffalo Spree's 2025 Best Original Music Artist award. We chat about his signature "anthem arena rock" sound, his dynamic acoustic sets, and his brand-new six-piece band, akloh. & co. Plus, we dive into his debut LP anthology (Deluxe Edition) and his latest hit single, "love of the game."