MET Orchestra and Manhattan BP Perform Musical Read-Aloud for Kids

Members of the MET Orchestra were joined by Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer at the New York Public Library’s Harry Belafonte Branch at 203 West 115th Street in Harlem to perform a FREE “Musical Read-Aloud” for children and families.

Borough President Brewer read “Buzzard and Wren Have a Race,” from the book A Ring of Tricksters by Virginia Hamilton and the book Icarus Swinebuckle by Michael Garland, accompanied by an original score composed by Robert Miller, husband of MET Orchestra violinist Elena Barere.

This children’s program has been organized by the MET Orchestra Musicians, who are engaging with communities across the city and advocating on issues that touch the lives of all New Yorkers, including a well-rounded cultural education; funding for arts organizations and artists; access to live music and increased diversity and equity in the arts.

“We’re very excited to play for kids and families at the Harry Belafonte library!” said MET Orchestra violist Mary Hammann, “As a parent and a member of the orchestra, I’ve seen first-hand that music, the arts and community advocacy go hand-in-hand. At a time when our society is openly discussing equity and inclusion, and when support for the arts in our schools and communities is constantly under threat, we must find new ways to introduce young people to the power of live music and the art that helps them to learn and thrive. The musicians in our orchestra are committed to strengthening the role that music and art play as part of a healthy, inclusive and positive society.”