The Port Jefferson Middle School string ensemble had the honor of performing the National Anthem at the Stony Brook University Men’s Home Basketball Game on January 15, prior to the matchup against Hofstra University.

The student musicians delivered a memorable performance in front of a packed arena, showcasing their talent, dedication, and musical excellence on a collegiate stage. The opportunity provided students with a unique and inspiring experience, connecting music education with a major university athletic event.

This special performance was made possible with the assistance of August Fortugno, Coordinator of Ticket Operations for Stony Brook University, whose support and coordination helped bring the event together. Port Jefferson Middle School is proud of the String Ensemble for representing the district with professionalism and pride, and for contributing to a memorable game-day atmosphere at Stony Brook University.

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School and Port Jefferson Middle School string students recently showcased their musical talent at the Intermediate Long Island String Festival (LISFA) held at Northport High School.

The following students, representing grades 5–8, were selected to perform at this prestigious festival: Seyanna Cerar (Grade 8), Magdalene Masone (Grade 5), Aria Olsen (Grade 5), Sude Ozgur (Grade 8), Annika Schenke (Grade 5), and Addison Schmettan (Grade 6).

Students were chosen through a competitive selection process that included musicians from across Suffolk County. Selection was based primarily on New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) scores, along with teacher recommendations, highlighting both technical skill and musical achievement.

Participation in LISFA provides students with the opportunity to perform challenging repertoire alongside talented peers while working with experienced conductors. Congratulations to all selected Port Jefferson string students on this outstanding accomplishment. Their hard work and dedication to music are commendable and reflect the strength of the Port Jefferson string program. 

 

Date Added: 2/4/2026

Port Jefferson School District is proud to announce that several Earl L. Vandermeulen High School string students have been selected to participate in the prestigious Secondary Long Island String Festival (LISFA), held this year at Eastport-South Manor High School.

The selected students include Allie Blumenthal (grade 11), Mari Fukuto (grade 12), Nicholas Hogan (grade 11), Joshua Kwon (grade 11), Nila Manian (grade 10), Maxwell Quartararo (grade 9), and Ava Sexton (grade 11). These talented musicians, representing grades 9 through 12, were chosen through a highly competitive selection process that included students from across Suffolk County.

Selection for LISFA is based primarily on New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) scores, along with teacher recommendations, recognizing students for their musical excellence, dedication, and achievement. Participation in this festival provides students with the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside other outstanding young string musicians under the direction of accomplished conductors.

The Port Jefferson School District congratulates all of the selected string students on this impressive accomplishment and commends them for their hard work and commitment to musical excellence.
Photo 1: (L-R): Dr. Michael Caravello, Nila Manian, Mari Fukuto, Ava Sexton, Allie Blumenthal, Nicholas Hogan, Maxwell Quartararo, and Joshua Kwon.