UB’s Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention again joins forces with Hodgson Russ LLP and M&T Bank for another “BAND Against Bullying” school arts competition at 7 p.m. April 28 in the Center for the Arts, North Campus.

The event — fast becoming a spring fixture for UB and area schools — will bring students to the university to demonstrate their musical and artistic skills in a live performing arts competition. It also is an opportunity for students to promote the theme of dignity and respect for all students, raise community awareness of bullying-related issues and rally support for anti-bullying education efforts.

Eleven local high schools and one middle school will send students chosen to represent their schools to perform through either a musical, artistic or dramatic piece that they have produced themselves. Tickets are $5 and available at the Center for the Arts box office or the BAND Against Bullying website.

 “I am particularly excited for this year’s event, as it will be our biggest yet,” says Amanda  B. Nickerson, director of the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention. “The energy of the students is palpable and it is so encouraging to see them use their considerable talents to spread such an important message of the importance of treating others with dignity and respect.

“Empowering these leaders of tomorrow to set the tone in their schools and community is key to preventing bullying and other forms of violence.”