February 13, 2025
As a courtesy to the artists and for the uninterrupted enjoyment of your fellow patrons, please silence 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.
Since the project’s start in 1999, Vitamin String Quartet (VSQ) has helped establish classical crossover as a genuine force in contemporary music while accompanying countless listeners through their workday and late-night study sessions, scoring unforgettable film and TV moments, and helping couples around the world create their perfect wedding playlist. Fresh off high-profile placements in Netflixʼs smash Bridgerton and Universal’s The King of Staten Island, VSQ has “reached a mainstream, global audience” (Variety) and “charmed the world with their classical covers” (Nylon). As such, they have become one of the most popular contemporary string ensembles in the world.
Across over 300 releases, VSQ have produced cutting-edge string renditions of a highly eclectic mix of artists, erasing boundaries between classical, dance, hip-hop, rock, and pop. From Cardi B to Björk, Studio Ghibli to goth metal, VSQ approaches their renditions with respect and care, breathing new life into music they already love.
Their longstanding VSQ Performs the Hits series has allowed them to transform the best hits pop has had to offer for the past eight years. Of the series, New York Observer wrote, “VSQ’s atmospheric hits have made classical versions of pop music cool.” The quartet also engages with select artists on a full-album basis. These artists have included visionaries such as Lana Del Rey, Björk, and Sigur Rós, as well as music from the films of Studio Ghibli.
To date, these heartfelt renditions have earned the ensemble over 2 billion streams, almost 4 million downloads, and over 1 million physical units sold. Seven of VSQ’s albums have charted with Billboard, peaking at #4 in both
the Classical and Classical Crossover categories. Most recently, the full-length album VSQ Performs Lana Del Rey was nominated for Best Classical Record in the 2021 Libera Awards.
VSQ’s music has appeared in high-profile TV shows such as Netflix’s Bridgerton, HBO’s Westworld, Showtime’s Shameless, and ABC’s Modern Family. The ensemble appeared onscreen with 30 Seconds to Mars for an episode MTV Unplugged as well as in an episode of Gossip Girl. VSQ can also be heard alongside Danny Elfman, Plain White T’s, Korn, and others in the official The Nightmare Before Christmas tribute album Nightmare Revisited
Based in Los Angeles, VSQ features a rotating cast of musicians and producers and frequently collaborates with animators, creators, and likeminded artists. Their collaborations with ThatViolaKid, Simply Three, the Dutch Domino Team, and DoodleChaos have been major creative successes.
Their vast and eclectic catalogue guarantees you’ll find something you love and their most popular playlists (The VSQ Study Playlist, VSQ Loves Modern Hits, and Relax + Unwind) provide you with the tools necessary to soundtrack your day.
FEBRUARY
Outstanding String Musicians
Maddox Allen
Grade 8; Copeland Middle School; Nominated by Jason DePope
Maddox is an outstanding member of the Copeland Middle School String Ensemble and the CMS Chamber Strings. As concertmaster, Maddox continually demonstrates leadership by sharing his musical skills and knowledge with fellow classmates. Maddox has proudly represented Copeland Middle School at the North Jersey School Music Association Region 1 Elementary and Middle School Festivals. Outside of school, Maddox is a dedicated member of the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra in the Repertory Orchestra, where his talent and hard work earned him the role of Assistant Principal for the second violin. Additionally, he participates in the Rhythm for Life program, which allows him to attend masterclasses and share his passion for music by performing for children at the Discovery Center in Morristown. He has played at the University of St. Elizabeth, participated in holiday concerts at nursing homes and local shops, and most recently, had the privilege of performing at a wedding. Beginning at just 8 years old, Maddox turned to music as a means of navigating significant medical challenges, only to discover a profound love for classical music and self-expression through teaching himself various songs. Today, Maddox dreams of attending the Juilliard School to further his musical career.
Joyce Noblett
Grade 7; Pequannock Valley School, Nominated by Michael Kertesz
Joyce is an exceptional string player whose dedication, leadership, and passion for music make her a vital part of our music program. In both jazz band and concert band, Joyce consistently demonstrates outstanding musicianship. Her technical skill and expressive playing elevate every performance, and she is always eager to take on challenging music. Whether playing in a section or as a soloist, Joyce brings energy and precision to every rehearsal and performance. Beyond her musical abilities, Joyce is a true leader in the classroom. She takes the time to help her peers, offering guidance on difficult passages and encouraging younger musicians. Her patience and willingness to assist others foster a positive learning environment where all students feel supported. JoyceĘĽs passion for music is evident in everything she does. She arrives at rehearsal prepared, eager to learn, and excited to make music with others. Her enthusiasm is contagious, inspiring those around her to work harder and grow as musicians. For her dedication, leadership, and musicianship, Joyce is truly deserving of this recognition.
Hayleen Ramirez
Grade 8; Central Middle School; Nominated by Darby MacAdams
Hayleen Ramirez is an excellent student that is deserving of this honor. She is hard working, kind, and a team player. She always follows instructions, participates in discussions, and performs the music to the best of her ability. Hayleen is a musician I can count on and I am honored to teach her!
Elizabeth Pfeiffer
Grade 8; Mountain View School; Nominated by Leigh Carpenter
Elizabeth is an exceptional musician who has a deep passion for music who shares her love of music with her peers. She plays her cello at an advanced level, has great technique, and a good ear. She also has mastery of her instrument in many different positions and
The 2024-2025 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.
Outstanding String Musicians
handles switches like a pro. But the most impressive thing about Elizabeth’s playing is her musicality. It is uplifting to hear her warm and mature tone and how beautifully she forms phrases. Elizabeth bounces into class with ideas, excitement, and a passion for music. Her enthusiasm and hunger for quality music is inspiring. She challenges herself with accelerated repertoire and solos and is part of ensembles and opportunities in the larger community as well as in our school. But being in a school ensemble is about more than the individual and I am thankful that Elizabeth is generous with her knowledge and experience. She peer-mentors classmates, helping them to improve, and does so in a kind and encouraging way.
Dylan Troup
Grade 12; Morristown High School; Nominated by Norma Davis
Dylan is an outstanding, dedicated student in the Morristown High School Orchestra. As viola section leader, Dylan is an excellent collaborator who is eager to learn, relishes challenges, and works hard to achieve his goals. He has great ideas throughout rehearsals, is engaged and focused, and participates fully and with feeling. Dylan has a true passion for the viola, especially relishing the depth of tone and warm melodies throughout the music he plays. As a superb team player, Dylan leads by example and inspires his peers to strive for excellence, volunteering his time during lunch each week to peer-teach and work with his fellow violists. During all of his years at MHS, Dylan has been deeply involved in numerous opportunities in the music department, performing with the select Camerata, String Quartet, Chamber Orchestra, and Pit Orchestra for the school musicals. Last year, he performed Dvorakʼs “American” String Quartet, which opens with a beautiful viola melody. It was wonderful to see Dylan pour himself into the music and draw the audience into the performance. Dylan is intelligent, reliable, personable, naturally curious, and tuned in to the needs of others. An incredibly talented musician and outstanding string player, he is invested in the success of the ensembles he plays in and shows great enthusiasm during rehearsals and performances. Dylan has a bright future ahead and will surely make a difference wherever life takes him.
Lily Van Houten
Grade 8; Mount Olive Middle School; Nominated by Aimee Jimenez
Lily is an 8th grade cellist with a heart of gold. She comes to rehearsal every day with a positive attitude, a piece she thinks we should play, and a love for the cello. Lily is a friend to everyone she meets and will be the first one to greet you when you walk into a room. Lily takes initiative and wants herself and her peers to do well. To that end, she will go out of her way to help a friend in any way they need. Lily participates in the Sussex County Youth Orchestra and other extracurricular music activities. She is a joy to have in class and an honor to teach; it has been my privilege for these past three years to experience her love of life and music.
Ariel Wei
Grade 8; Central Middle School; Nominated by Darby MacAdams
Ariel is a dedicated student that is deserving of this honor. She is a strong leader. Not only does she lead by example, but she also helps others in her section when needed. Ariel has a strong work ethic and will step up to any challenge she is faced with. Ariel is a consistent student that I have the privilege of working with.
Trevor Zorzi
Grade 8; Jefferson Township Middle School; Nominated by Lauren Kulick
Although Jefferson does not have a devoted strings program, that hasnĘĽt stopped Trevor from being a strong leader and performer in our band program on his violin. Trevor has been a member of the JTMS Bands since 6th grade, has participated in our after school Select Band since 6th grade, performed in our schoolĘĽs talent show as a soloist, is a member of the JTMS Tri-M Music Honor Society, and has performed for our holiday community event the Winter Stroll as a soloist. Aside from just performing the music he is given, he also loves to create medleys and remakes of songs that he listens to. Outside of the band program, Trevor is in our GATEWAYS (gifted and talented) program and spent this past summer at the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington DC.
