April 24, 2026
As a courtesy to the artists and for the uninterrupted enjoyment of your fellow patrons, please turn off all electronic devices. No portion of this performance may be photographed, recorded, filmed, taped, broadcast or mechanically reproduced without the written consent of the Artist and/or the Presenter. Mayo Performing Arts Center is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Program subject to change.
The String Queens Praised for its authentic, soulful, and orchestral sound, The String Queens (TSQ) is a dynamic trio that creates stimulating musical experiences that inspire diverse audiences to love, hope, feel, and imagine! With an array of repertoire spanning from the Baroque era to the Jazz Age to today’s Billboard Hot 100 Chart, TSQ performs versatile programs that take listeners on a rousing musical journey through time and a multitude of musical genres. Based in Washington, D.C., TSQ has been featured in performances at renowned concert halls and venues across America, including Carnegie Hall in New York City and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in the nation’s capital. Notable appearances include a special performance dedicated to Vice President Kamala Harris at the “We Are One” Presidential Inauguration Concert in January 2021 and rendering a spotlight presentation of TSQ’s electrifying arrangement of Harry Styles’s hit song “Golden” for the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament “The Championships, Wimbledon” in June 2021. As an ensemble who frequents the D.C. jazz scene, other headlining performances include multiple appearances at the DC Jazz Festival and the Capital Jazz Fest. Recognized by D.C.’s leading news network WUSA9 as “school teachers by day and concert performers by night”, TSQ’s dedication, service, and innovative work in the field of music education has been acknowledged by the DC Jazz Festival with the “Jazz Education Award” in 2022, Carnegie Hall with the “Music Educators Workshop” Keynote Address in 2021, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra with the “Aspire Award” in 2020, Washington Performing Arts’s “Mars Arts D.C” Resident Ensemble in 2019 and 2020, and most recently, a partnership with the Save The Music Foundation to present a series of professional development workshops for performing arts educators around the country on “Social Emotional Learning in the Arts Classroom” and “Trauma-Informed Centered Arts Classrooms” as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In August 2022, TSQ released its third album titled RISE, which was made possible by a Sphinx Organization MPower Artist Grant. With this album, TSQ sought to sonically address the problems that are currently plaguing the world by creating unique arrangements of timeless classics rooted in hope, joy, peace, and love. Featuring original compositions by Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Richard Smallwood, The Beatles, Michael Jackson, and more, RISE takes listeners on a musical journey that starts in a field of loss and hopelessness and ends in a fortress of faith, triumph, and fortitude. Previous albums from TSQ include a selftitled EP released in 2019 and a holiday EP titled Our Favorite Things released in 2020. All TSQ albums are available on its website and all major digital music platforms. DAWN JOHNSON (Viola) Named as the recipient of the 31st Annual Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Performing Arts Teaching in Washington, D.C., Dawn Michelle Johnson is a graduate (B.M, M.M) of The Juilliard School in New York City and has been recognized by her alma mater for her “Outstanding Achievement and Leadership in Music” as a recipient of the Jerome L. Greene Fellowship, the Irene Diamond Scholarship, and the Peter Mennin Award in Music. A native of Miami, FL, Dawn is a violist and music educator who has given masterclasses around the world and has been featured as soloist with the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, the New World Symphony, the Santa Fe Virtuosi, and the Ars Flores Chamber Orchestra. In addition, her contributions to the field of music education have earned her recognition as a quarter-finalist for the 1st Annual GRAMMY Music Educator Award, a recipient of KIPP DC’s Executive Director’s Award, and the title of one of GLAMOUR Magazine’s “Top 10 College Women”. She has previously served as a member of the viola faculty for The Killington Music Festival in Vermont and the DC Youth Orchestra Program in Washington, D.C.
April 24, 2026 KENDALL ISADORE (Violin) Kendall Nicole Isadore is an educator, violinist, vocalist, pianist and songwriter, originally from Houston, Texas and currently residing in the Washington, DC area. After finishing her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at Howard University, she began teaching middle school science. In 2014, she was invited to found one of KIPP DC’s middle schools (Northeast Academy) as the inaugural Orchestra Director. There, she created a strings program that prioritized excellence, character building, creative expression, and commitment through the vehicle of music. She later became a vice principal at the school and was an instructional coach to the science, math and electives teachers. Though she loved managing and coaching adults, Kendall longed for the classroom and later transitioned to another KIPP DC campus where she founded a second strings program. After four years, Kendall made the tough choice to transition out of the teaching profession to shift into a brand new role. She currently serves as the Director of Enrollment Management at Bishop McNamara High School, a private school in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Kendall is also a graduate of The George Washington University where she earned a Master of Arts degree in Education Policy and Administration. Matriculating through GW’s program was truly a highlight in her educational journey, and it solidified her passion for ensuring that every child everywhere receives the world class education they deserve - no matter what and by any means. When Kendall isn’t serving the students in her community, she spends a great deal of time with her musical group, The String Queens (founded in 2017). The String Queens is a dynamic string trio that is committed to creating diverse musical experiences that inspire audiences to love, hope, think, and imagine. The trio has performed all over the world and has graced stages everywhere from Carnegie
Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center to name a few. Education is at the forefront of The String Queens’ mission, and the group travels the world imparting teaching strategies, first-hand experience, curriculum design and pedagogy to arts teachers, schools and students all over the world. Kendall understands that with God, all things are possible, and above all, she seeks to bring Him glory in everything she does. She lives by her family’s motto: “Keep trying, never give up, until you succeed.” ÉLISE SHARP (Cello) Élise Sharp, a native Washingtonian, began playing the cello in the DC Youth Orchestra Program (DCYOP) when she was eight years old. As a student at DCYOP, she was afforded the distinct honor of performing under the baton of the late, great cellist and conductor, Mstislav Rostropovich, and was selected to tour with the orchestra to China and Taiwan. Inspired by the rigorous training and diverse experiences that she received as a student at DCYOP, Élise continued her musical studies in music education at Howard University. She has graced some of the world’s most renowned stages in performances alongside musical legends Whitney Houston, Tye Tribbett, Donnie McClurkin, Aretha Franklin, and Dionne Warwick, to name a few. In addition, Élise has performed for three former Presidents of the United States of America including, George H. W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and Barack Obama. Élise went back to the DC Youth Orchestra Program, where it all started, and served as cello instructor and conductor of two ensembles for over twenty years. Currently, she is the director of a high school orchestra program in Maryland and serves as adjunct professor at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Outstanding String Players
APRIL
Outstanding String Players Shashwat Chakraborty Grade 12; School District of the Chathams; Nominated by Liam Keller Shashwat is a highly organized and motivated musician, constantly striving to achieve his personal high standard for performance in everything he does. Shashwat is a strong student leader and his peers and faculty respect his academic work and character. As a member of the orchestra program and Honors Chamber Orchestra, Shashwat was confident during rehearsals and consistently demonstrated excellence during many professional performances. Shashwat has demonstrated leadership abilities time and time again being the Principal Cellist of both Concert and Chamber Orchestras and taking on extra responsibilities in order to help the ensemble thrive. Shashwat has been a constant positive force of energy motivating his peers to excellence. Always interested in the concerns of others, he was available to help students requesting assistance. Shashwat is a team player and understands the process of moving from the model of good to great. Shashwat is driven by a personal desire to improve his life so he can enrich the lives of others, shown in his leadership of the cello section and lessons he gives to younger students. Shashwat’s record of strong intellectual and academic achievement, performance ability, integrity, character, leadership, respect for others, and his unfailing energy to use his talents to their fullest, merit the Music Student of the Month award. Norah Chapman Grade 8; Copeland Middle School; Nominated by Jason DePope An accomplished bassist, Norah is a vital member of our Orchestra, Chamber Ensemble, and Jazz Band. Her versatility is remarkable; she excels on both electric and double bass, with a repertoire spanning from Mozart to Metallica. Norah’s dedicated musicianship serves as the heartbeat of our ensembles and inspires her peers to reach higher standards. Beyond her technical skill, her prepared and easygoing nature makes her a true joy to teach. Allyson Herrera Grade 12; Morristown High School; Nominated by Norma Davis Allyson Herrera has been an excellent member of the Morristown High School Orchestra for the past four years. Allyson has a rare talent for the violin; her sound and expression are mature, sensitive, and deeply personal. As early as freshman year, Allyson rose to the section leader stand in her orchestra class, which is highly unusual for a younger player. Allyson practiced diligently, served as an effective leader, and has continued to lead during all four years. As concertmaster of the orchestra, Allyson is highly attentive to the details of the music, seeking to convey the sound, mood, and style convincingly The 2025-2026 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.
April 24, 2026
and with nuance. She is a role model for the younger students, showing that diligent effort, nurturing a love of learning, investing oneself in the work at hand, and working together toward a common purpose are desirable, fulfilling, and valuable goals. Allyson enjoys challenges and being involved in every opportunity that comes her way. She has been an enthusiastic member of the select Chamber Orchestra, Camerata, Pit Orchestra, String Quartet, Abbey Orchestra, and the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra. She also has performed beautifully as a violin soloist in recitals each spring, has performed in small ensembles with the choir, and with the NJSMA Region Orchestra. Shreya Jha Grade 8; Brooklawn Middle School; Nominated by Adam Austerlitz Shreya is a very talented, hard-working violist. She contributes greatly to the Brooklawn Middle School Orchestras, performing as both principal violist and soloist. Most recently, Shreya was selected to perform with the New Jersey Region I Middle School Honors Orchestra. Stella Martinez Grade 8; Mount Olive Middle School; Nominated by Aimee Jimenez Stella is an amazing eighth grade cellist. She has a drive to learn and constantly pushes herself to be the best musician she can possibly be. In addition to participating in our school ensembles, Stella is currently a member of the Sussex County Youth Orchestra, and has participated in the Region I Honors Middle School Orchestra Festival for two years. Stella will never hesitate to volunteer for an event, be it a performance opportunity or a chance to help a fellow student in the orchestra. She is reliable, responsible, and an absolute joy to teach, a student who lives and breathes music. Lea Mohally Grade 8; Mountain View School; Nominated by Leigh Carpenter Lea Mohally is the consummate orchestra student, an incredible musician, and a generous peer leader with a contagious passion for music. Lea plays the violin at an advanced level. She is an elite sight reader who not only plays technically difficult music but also understands the theory behind it. Most importantly, Lea performs musically at a level years above her age; she touches the hearts of any audience fortunate enough to hear her play. But being in an ensemble is about more than the individual and I am so grateful that Lea is generous with her knowledge. She peer-mentors classmates. With a knack for communicating in a kind, respectful, and encouraging way, she has raised the motivation and playing levels of her classmates. She sometimes volunteers to play violin 2 or violin 3 even though she is the most advanced student, because she realizes the importance that bringing out the harmonic parts makes in the sound of the ensemble. Marcus Mosquera Grade 12; Randolph High School; Nominated by Aoma Caldwell Marcus is a dedicated violinist with beautiful tone and vibrato who consistently brings creativity, passion, and perseverance to his work. He has been a featured soloist with our orchestra, and for the past two years, has been a member of our school’s premier string ensemble, Arietta. His commitment to his craft is evident in every rehearsal and performance, and his passionate artistry inspires those around him. He is active in his service to our performing arts community, and is consistently kind. What sets Marcus
Outstanding String Players
apart is his character. He is deeply loyal to his friends and peers, and he brings empathy and thoughtfulness to every interaction. When conflicts arise, he listens, reflects, and chooses forgiveness, modeling maturity and compassion well beyond his years. Amy Strachnyi Grade 6; Pequannock Valley School; Nominated by Michael Kertesz Amy is an outstanding Bass player and is more than deserving of this award. Despite playing Bass for less than a year, she has demonstrated remarkable dedication and initiative by beginning private lessons over the summer before entering 6th grade, setting a strong foundation for her rapid growth. She has embraced every opportunity to challenge herself, including joining the jazz band, where she continues to develop her musical skills with confidence and enthusiasm. Beyond her musicianship, Amy consistently models exceptional character—she is responsible, supportive of her peers, and brings a positive attitude to every rehearsal. Her work ethic, courage to take on new challenges, and leadership by example make her a truly deserving nominee. Jewel Sibi Grade 8; Central Middle School; Nominated by Darby MacAdams Jewel is a compassionate and hardworking violist that is beyond deserving of this honor. She has participated in the NJSMA MS Honors Orchestra, and Mount Tabor Music Camp. She is currently involved in her school’s Chamber Orchestra, 8th Grade Orchestra, and Orchestra mentorship program. Jewel is a great leader. She is always kind and humble when helping members of her section and mentees. Additionally, Jewel is a hard worker. It’s her strong work ethic and interest in learning that have made her into the skilled viola player she is today! Jewel is a student I can always count on in and out of the classroom. Anara Jorgenson Sullivan Grade 11; Parsippany High School; Nominated by Joseph Stella Anara (Annie) is a talented violin player in our high school orchestra. She has a passion for music and is very conscientious of learning her parts. She has recently volunteered to perform in a chamber music group outside of school for a town event and currently has a singing role for the school’s spring musical. Aside from her musical accomplishments, she has volunteered to maintain the orchestra’s Instagram page and she is also always very motivated, polite and responsible. Annie’s musicianship, drive, positive attitude and demeanor make her an excellent choice for this month's MSOM. Eleanor Tepedino Grade 5; Chatham Middle School; Nominated by Mario De Santis Eleanor Tepdino is an exceptional 5th grade violist who consistently demonstrates a remarkable commitment to her musical growth. She is often the first student to learn new music, approaching each piece with focus, determination, and a clear desire to improve. Eleanor is highly responsible and dependable. She regularly arrives early to class, comes fully prepared, and shows initiative well beyond her years. Her organization and attention to detail allow her to make steady, noticeable progress, and she embraces challenges with confidence rather than hesitation. Eleanor’s dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude make her a standout young musician who is truly deserving of this recognition.