Keith Lockhart to Conduct Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra at The Performing Arts Center 5/1

Affectionately known as "America's Orchestra," The Boston Pops is the most recorded and arguably the most beloved orchestra in the country. Their spring season begins in Boston on May 6, but they will be presenting a very special afternoon concert locally, at The Performing Arts Center, Purchase College (SUNY), on Sunday, May 1, at 3pm.

The Boston Pops, which has often been described as "America's Orchestra," is both the creator and lead exemplar of the Pops orchestra tradition-one that presents concerts combining favorites of classical music with a wide variety of musical genres, with performances showcasing a diverse selection of artists from the fields of classical, jazz, Broadway, pop, country, indie, and rock, among others. The Boston Pops was founded in 1885 as a second, popular identity of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO); what sets The Pops apart from a traditional orchestra concert is its focus on creating an atmosphere of music-making that is both fun and entertaining for music lovers of all ages.

The program to be performed on May 1 has been put together especially for this date. It incorporates a broad range of genres, ranging from 20th-century classical works to audience favorites from the Broadway and American songbooks to pop classics; it includes a guest appearance by pianist Charlie Albright, and will conclude with a sing-a-long of Beatles favorites.

The Pops will perform under the baton of Poughkeepsie, NY native Keith Lockhart. Lockhart grew up in nearby Wappingers Falls and was educated in the public schools of New York's Dutchess County. He began studying piano at age seven; he holds degrees from Furman University and Carnegie Mellon University, and honorary doctorates from several American universities. He has been the Conductor of The Pops since 1995. During his tenure as Conductor, Lockhart has significantly expanded the orchestra's programming, focused on national annual touring, and participated in major media events.

Tickets for The Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra are priced at $95 / $75 / $50, with discounts available for seniors, students, and groups. They are available at The Performing Arts Center's Box Office at 735 Anderson Hill Road in Purchase, NY; by phone at 914-251-6200; or 24/7 online at www.ArtsCenter.org.