The latest surge in COVID-19 cases in the region is causing a change of plans for a big celebration the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra had been planning.

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Executive Director, Dr. Paul Cienniwa says the January 29 Wallenberg Festival was to honor founder Fritz Wallenberg with musicians from the Philharmonic, the Binghamton Community Orchestra and the Youth Symphony Orchestra preforming all on one stage in an epic performance at the Forum Theater. The concert had to be postponed due to COVID concerns and Dr. Cienniwa says it’s hoped the event can be rescheduled later in the spring.

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A fundraiser celebrating the legacy of the Wallenbergs will still be held at the Kilmer Mansion January 26. That event will feature some of the greatest recordings of the Binghamton Symphony and Choral Society under the direction of Fritz Wallenberg himself on state of the art MacIntosh audio equipment (manufactured in Binghamton).

Binghamton Philharmonic Photo of Kilmer Mansion
Binghamton Philharmonic Photo of Kilmer Mansion
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Dr. Ceinniwa is also a guest on the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up.

He will be discussing his arrival in Binghamton to take over as Executive Director of the local philharmonic just as the pandemic hit in April, 2020 and how he has faced the challenges of being a steward of the local cultural treasure during such a difficult time.

Ceinniwa, an accomplished musician himself with an upcoming harpsicord recital, says he thinks there is an even greater appreciation now for what the Binghamton area has that even other, larger areas don't in the form of stellar performing arts like the  Binghamton Philharmonic, the Binghamton Youth Symphony, Community Orchestra, the Tri Cities Opera, Goodwill Theater and other organizations.

You can hear more about the Binghamton Philharmonic from Dr. Ceinniwa on Southern Tier Close Up Saturday at 6:04 a.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF, WNBF.com and 92.1 FM and on the WNBF podcast.

You can find out more about the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra and upcoming performances and fundraisers (tickets are still available for the February Mac and Cheese event) at www.binghamtonphilharmonic.org.

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