Passaic Today

The Trillium String Quartet, made up of graduate students from Montclair State University’s John J. Cali School of Music, recently performed at Valley Brook Village for Veterans in Basking Ridge, New Jersey. This event is part of their participation in the Cali Collective Ensemble, a two-year program offering immersive performance experiences for music students.

The quartet’s members include violinists Judith Kim and Sommer Altier, violist Sydney Link, and cellist Amelia Smerz. They are part of a program that provides real-world experience and an Artist’s Diploma Certificate. Anthony Mazzocchi, Director of the Cali School and a GRAMMY-nominated educator, explains, “The aim is to prepare string quartets for professional careers through intensive study and performances.”

Outreach is a crucial element of the program, allowing students to perform in various settings, including veterans’ facilities, through a partnership with Music for All Seasons (MFAS). “We’re bringing the music to the people,” says Altier, highlighting the importance of reaching audiences who might have limited access to live performances.

The program benefits from collaborations with renowned artists and offers students opportunities to engage in performances with the likes of Béla Fleck and the Attacca Quartet. Smerz reflects on these experiences, saying they have stretched the students and provided unique opportunities.

Rena Fruchter, Executive Director of MFAS, emphasizes the educational and outreach value of the program. It offers students mentorship and broadens their understanding of music’s societal role. Diane Michaels, a harpist and one of the mentors, highlights the skills the students bring to their performances.

The Trillium String Quartet looks to maintain their collaboration, planning to teach at a chamber music program in Vermont. They aim to continue performing together, reaching varied audiences. Smerz expresses, “We want to be a quartet for the rest of our lives, performing and traveling and playing in as many different places for as many different people as we possibly can.”

The performance at Valley Brook Village was well-received, with veterans engaging with the music. Retired veteran Harriel Lacy noted, “It was wonderful,” especially enjoying the performance of “Amazing Grace.”