MPAC Recognizes Local Students As Outstanding Vocalists

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Students from several area towns were recognized as Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) Music Students of the Month, specifically for their achievements as Outstanding Vocalists. The honorees, nominated by their teachers, were celebrated at a performance by Linda Eder at the Mayo Performing Arts Center on Saturday.

MPAC acknowledges students each month throughout its season, inviting area teachers to submit nominations. A year-end recital for all recognized students is scheduled for June.

Among the honored students is Olivia Acosta, a 12th-grade student from West Morris Central High School, nominated by Mark Stingle. Acosta has been a leader in her choral program for three years, serving as VP of Social Media and leading the Alto 2 section. She has been accepted into the Morris Area Honor Choir for three years and All-State for two years, and has performed in lead or featured roles in her school's drama program for four years. She was also a professional artist after an appearance on The Voice as a freshman. Stingle noted her humble nature, which makes her an excellent choral singer.

Gloria Bakinahe, an 8th-grade student from Mount Olive Middle School, was nominated by Joanna Scarangello. Scarangello stated that Bakinahe is a gifted singer with an admirable work ethic and desire to improve. Bakinahe is regularly selected for Honor Choirs and has been featured as a soloist multiple times. Elizabeth Budesheim, an 11th-grade student from Pequannock Valley High School, was nominated by William Arnold. Arnold described Budesheim as a standout vocalist for her a cappella group, the Nocktaves, and a dedicated choir member. She has held two major roles on the PTHS stage and has stepped into a leadership role as Music Director for a fall touring production.

Michaela Cedeño, an 11th-grade student from Dover High School, was nominated by John Hoferer. Hoferer noted Cedeño's dedication, motivation, and leadership in the music department. Lillia Choi, an 8th-grade student from Ridgedale Middle School, was nominated by Andrea Lynch for her strong musical ability, positive attitude, and genuine enthusiasm for singing. Dia Cohen, a 12th-grade student from West Morris Mendham High School, was nominated by Patricia Danner. Danner described Cohen as an outstanding young musician whose dedication, leadership, and love of music have made a meaningful impact on the Mendham High School Choir. Cohen has served as Choir President and Student Director of Ladies in Red.

Reya Emmes, a 7th-grade student from Rockaway Valley School, was nominated by Sara Bartel, who called her an extremely talented vocal musician. Michael Fielding, a 6th-grade student from Harding Township School, was nominated by Rachel Gareau, who highlighted his clear tone and sense of pitch. Jasper Zoe Fernandes, a 12th-grade student from Roxbury High School, was nominated by Patrick Hachey, who noted Fernandes' immense growth as a musician and their participation in various choral and theater programs, including Roxbury High School's Choral program president. Fernandes has been accepted into North Jersey Region Choir for four years and NJ All State Choir for three years. Amelia Graham, an 8th-grade student from Black River Middle School, was nominated by Kathleen Vespignani, who described her as a magnificent musician and performer. Bella Norton, an 8th-grade student from Randolph Middle School, was nominated by Ann Kelly, who noted her consistent participation in choir and orchestra since 4th grade. Eve Raisch, an 8th-grade student from Brooklawn Middle School, was nominated by Danielle Hazel, who highlighted Raisch as a strong and confident singer and a leader in her chorus. Nikolas Pavero, an 8th-grade student from John Hill School, was nominated by Yvonne Manca, who described him as an asset to the choir program, demonstrating exceptional musical ability and dedication.