BUFFALO, N.Y. – A group of local, classically-trained musicians is planning an inspiring afternoon of music to support disaster relief efforts the world over.

Hearts & Hands will feature music that will appeal to a broad audience, including songs from musicals, the Habanera from Bizet’s Carmen, one of the world’s most popular operas, as well as lovely Spanish and French works, and American instrumental pieces, each performed by talented local artists. The concert will take place on Sunday, April 8 at 2 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1080 Main Street, Buffalo, with 100 percent of all funds raised supporting the ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response.

The concert was inspired by the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Maria.

“The images and news reports of how so many people were left to rebuild not only their homes, but their entire lives, left a very deep impact on us and got us thinking of how we could help, in some small measure,” said Rebecca Torres, one of the event organizers. “As musicians and Western New Yorkers, we know both what a moving force music can be, and also what a tremendous spirit community exists here. Our aim is to bring those forces together for an afternoon that can resonate thousands of miles away.”

Performing at Hearts & Hands will be well-known area singers and instrumentalists: Leslie Bahler (viola), Jill Buerk (voice), Roseann Deni (clarinet), Janice Dillman (cello), Maria Goodrich (voice), Linda Mabry (piano), Paul Schlossman (oboe), Karen Schmid (piano), Melissa Thorburn (voice), and Rebecca Torres (violin).

Voluntary donations will be accepted at the door, and sponsorships are available beginning at $25. For more information, contact Rebecca Torres at (716) 873-4194.

ELCA Disaster Response brings hope, healing and renewal to people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. ELCA Disaster Response collaborates with other disaster response organizations and

religious entities to provide the greatest stewardship of resources and maximum impact of response from immediate relief through long-term recovery.