WHAT: Welcome reception for the 2012 JoAnn Falletta International Guitar Concerto Competition semifinalists. Join WNED and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra in giving a warm welcome to this year’s semifinalists. Eight top international guitarists from eight different countries, who have already distinguished themselves on the international classical music scene, will travel here to compete in the fifth biennial competition.

WHEN: Tuesday, June 5 at 4 p.m.

WHERE: Blue Cross, Blue Shield Atrium, 257 West Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14202

WHO: Petrit Ceku - Zagreb, Croatia (currently studying in U.S.)
Andra's Csa'ki - Budapest, Hungary
Mark Edwards - Baltimore, Maryland, USA
Tariq Harb - Toronto, Ontario, Canada and Jordan (dual citizenship)
Ekachai Jearakul - Ubonsatchathani, Thailand
Celil Refik Kaya - Kadikoy, Istanbul (currently studying in U.S.)
Nemanja Ostoich - Serbia (resides in U.S.)
Sanel Redzic, - Bosnia-Herzegovina
WNED and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

WHY: Give the Falletta semifinalists a warm welcome to WNY. The contestants vie for a prize package that includes cash, a return engagement with the BPO, an appearance with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Round Top Musical Festival in Texas, a concert guitar by Gabriel Hernandez Jimenez and a crystal trophy. All proceeds benefit WNED and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Information: For more information, contact Christye Peterson, Managing Director, at (716) 866-9915, or visit fallettacompetition.org.