The Music of Ken-Ton Project
The Tonawanda-Kenmore Historical Society is embarking on a project to preserve the significant musical talents that the Kenmore Town of Tonawanda area has produced. We will interview current and former resident musicians from all genres and decades. We will interview the musicians and make these interviews available to the public.
This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by Arts Services Inc. This project is also made possible through a grant received from Kenmore Rotary Foundation.
TKHS member Melissa Chernowetz provides an introduction to the Music of Ken-Ton Project:
The Life, Times & Music of Michael Licata
Michael Licata is a Kenmore East High School graduate. For decades he has been performing, producing, directing and managing major recording artists in multi-million dollar productions. He has been awarded 16 Platinum and Gold Albums and was inducted into the Kenmore East Performing Arts Hall of Fame in 2011. Michael’s story is so fascinating we wanted to capture all his stories and insights and have produced his Music of Ken-Ton debut in two parts.
Part One
In Part One, Michael is interviewed by fellow Buffalo Music Hall of Fame inductee and Music of Ken-Ton interviewee, Dick Bauerle. Dick and Michael chat about Michael’s background, his ties to the Ken-Ton community and his vast musical career.
Added February 4, 2025
Part Two
In Part Two, Michael is interviewed by Ian Saccomando, an aspiring musician himself and a 2024 graduate of Kenmore East High School. Michael shares some great performance stories and offers advice to Ian and other aspiring musicians.
Added February 4, 2025
The Life, Times and Music of Phil Aguglia
Phil Aguglia is a 20-year high school educator and music teacher in New York State, currently head of music and performance at Kenmore East High School. Phil is interviewed by Nolan Vitko, a senior at Kenmore East and an accomplished musician himself.
Added June 14, 2024
The Life, Times and Music of Robin Grandin
A performer, musician, writer, and lyracist, Robin has returned from Nashville to resettle in Buffalo. Robin is interviewed by Dick Bauerle.
Added May 4, 2024
Dick Bauerle
Dick Bauerle, a resident of Tonawanda and Kenmore has been professionally engaged with the music industry for much of his life. A music producer, music teacher, and multi-faceted performer from around Buffalo and beyond, shares stories with Brian J. Walker.
Added March 25, 2024