Emmy Award-winning composer and author Peter Buffett is coming to Fresno to perform in a concert that benefits Valley arts education programs.

Buffett, a son of financier Warren Buffett, is performing in "Life is What You Make It: A Concert & Conversation with Peter Buffett" at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 2 at the Old Administration Building Auditorium at Fresno City College, 1101 E. University Ave.

Tickets cost $45, $65 and $100. They are available at fresnostate.edu/artshum/buffett.

Proceeds will support and promote arts education programs at the College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State, the State Center Community College District, the Fresno County Office of Education and University High School.

Officials at those institutions worked with local businessman/philanthropist Dan Martin to arrange Buffett's visit.

"We are thrilled that Peter has agreed to visit Fresno to share his story and support arts education in our community," Fresno State President John Welty said in a news release. "Studies show that arts education programs improve the developmental growth of children while lowering delinquency and truancy rates.

"This benefit will support the kind of programs that have a profound impact on the lives of Valley children."

In concert, Buffett combines music with discussion about defining one's path in life. He is author of the New York Times 2010 best-selling book, "Life is What You Make It." He promotes the rewards of self- respect and the value of pursuing individual passions rather than society's concepts of material wealth.

Buffett also has become an activist for social concerns through his music. His songs with social themes include "A Song for Everyone," featuring Grammy-winning artist Angelique Kidjo, and "Blood Into Gold," featuring Grammy-nominated artist Akon.

Details: Email scrosinasahm@csufresno.edu or call (559) 278-8342.

The reporter can be reached at rorozco@fresnobee.com or (559)441-6304.