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.

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School seniors Mari Fukuto and Isabela Thomsen were recently selected to participate in the prestigious New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) All-State Winter Conference, held in Rochester, NY.

Mari Fukuto performed violin with the NYSSMA All-State Symphonic Orchestra, while Isabela Thomsen was selected as an alto vocalist in the All-State Mixed Choir. Selection for the All-State Conference is a significant achievement, as students are chosen through a rigorous audition process that recognizes the highest levels of musical excellence across New York State.

Mari and Isabela had the opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside some of the finest student musicians in the state, working under the direction of renowned conductors and music educators. Earl L. Vandermeulen High School congratulates Mari Fukuto and Isabela Thomsen on this outstanding accomplishment and for representing their school music program with pride.

Earl L. Vandermeulen High School proudly announces that seven of its talented student-musicians have been selected to participate in the prestigious New York State Council of Administrators for Music Education (NYSCAME) All-County Music Festival. The festival was held at Connetquot High School and Hauppauge High School, bringing together top-performing students from across Suffolk County.

The selected students are Avery Eisaman (grade 11), Mari Fukuto (grade 12), Kevin Hong (grade 12), Joshua Kwon (grade 11), Ava Sexton (grade 11), Victoria Snaden (grade 12), and Isabela Thomsen (grade 12). These exceptional musicians earned their spots through a highly competitive process, with NYSSMA scores serving as the primary criterion, supported by strong teacher recommendations.

“We are incredibly proud of our students’ dedication to musical excellence,” said Dr. Michael Caravello, Director of Music and Fine Arts. “Their hard work, talent, and commitment to their craft are truly inspiring, and it is an honor to see them recognized at the county level.”

The Earl L. Vandermeulen High School community congratulates these students on their outstanding achievements and celebrates their continued contributions to the school’s vibrant music program.

Photo 1 (L-R): Joshua Kwon, Kevin Hong, Avery Eisaman, Mari Fukuto, Ava Sexton, and Dr. Michael Caravello (Director of Music & Fine Arts).
Photo 2 (L-R): Dr. Michael Caravello, Victoria Snaden, and Isabela Thomsen.