1-22-21 Program

John Lange
&
The Ridgewood Friends of Music
present…
A Musical Review from Broadway to Opera to
Jazz to Rock!
Friday, February 19, 2021
7:00pm
All proceeds received by Friends of Music are used
to support and enhance the K – 12 music programs!

Biographies
Gifted singer-songwriter and pianist Sherma Andrews captivates with her amazing stage
presence and voice so pleasing to the ear. At the Bergen Performing Arts Center, Sherma
opened for recording artists Michael McDonald and at a later date for Michael Feinstein. The
audience, on both occasions, rose to a standing ovation. While touring with the Grammy Award
Winning Latin sensation Enrique Iglesias, Sherma dazzled fans all over the US, South
America, and Europe as she stood in for Whitney Houston, singing their duet "Could I have This
Kiss Forever”. Sherma's active participation in prestigious song competitions and talent shows
won her a stream of national awards in her country of birth, Trinidad and Tobago. After placing
first in the Caribbean Song Festival, establishing herself as a formidable songwriter, Sherma
was then given a full Scholarship for gifted youth, to study at the accredited Berklee College of
Music, Boston, MA. At Berklee, Sherma was awarded the Hyatt Merit Scholarship for Arranging
and a performance scholarship for best vocal performance at the college. This honor student
later joined Berklee's faculty as an ensemble and performance studies instructor. Taking her
band on the road, Sherma performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and at the
Cape Cod Jazz Festival, among others. Sherma also toured with Britney Spears, worked with
Donna Summer, Branford Marsalis, Omar Hakim, Rickey Minor and Richard Bona. She
has appeared on many award shows such as: The American Music Awards, The Billboard
Radio Music Awards and The Teen Choice Awards. Sherma also appeared on TV talk shows
like Jay Leno, The Today Show, Kelly and Michael, David Letterman, and many others. Her
songs from her debut album entitled "Guilty" are featured in TV shows such as The Sopranos,
All My Children and The Young and The Restless. Sherma Andrews is not just a phenomenal
talent, she is an experience to remember.

Kenny Brescia, guitarist, has been a
mainstay on New York City’s Broadway
scene for years. Some original cast credits
include, “Tommy”, “RENT”, “All Shook Up”,
“High Fidelity”, ”Cry Baby”, “Legally Blonde”,
“Spiderman: The Musical” workshop,
“Shrek”, “Motown: The Musical”, “Bright
Star” and Chazz Palminteri’s “A Bronx
Tale”. He also performed on the Original
Soundtracks of “Escape To Margaritaville:
The Musical” and “SpongeBob
SquarePants: The New Musical”. He has
toured worldwide and recorded with Wilson
Pickett, The Mamas and Papas, Chaka
Khan, Benny King… He can also be heard
playing on numerous national jingles and
commercials on television, radio and the
internet.
The members of Classic V Winds have spent years playing together in orchestras, bands and
chamber music ensembles. Richard Foley on oboe, Richard Summers on clarinet, Carolyn
Kirby on horn, and Robert Gray on bassoon have been performing together in various groups
starting in the late 1970’s and early 80’s. When Flutist Kristin Bacchiocchi-Stewart joined them
in 2016, the group felt that they had the right combination of musicians and personalities to
establish a successful woodwind quintet. Since their inaugural season in 2018, Classic V has
developed into an exceptional ensemble. They share the same temperament, and each
member contributes a wealth of musical ideas and knowledge to the group. The group has
performed in Paramus, East Brunswick, River Edge, Bergenfield, Jersey City, and for the
Ringwood Friends of Music. Several of their concert selections are available on YouTube and
on Facebook by searching for Classic V Winds.

Artie Bressler, composer and saxophonist, has performed and recorded extensively throughout
the United States and around the world. As a featured soloist with the United States Air Force
Band, he traveled throughout Europe and North Africa for the State Department. Since his
return, he has worked with major artists and producers including The O’Jays, Bruce
Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt, John Hammond, Milt Jackson, The Four Tops and many others.
Artie’s recent success as a composer came for the score of the new musical comedy, "The First
Family of Second Avenue", which had its world premiere at the Becton Theatre at Fairleigh
Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ. The Newark Star Ledger gave Artie and his lyricist,
Michael Colby, a “New Jersey” Tony for best score. Earlier in his career, Artie wrote the music
for the Pulitzer prize-winning play “Crimes of the Heart”. In 1987, he was elected to be a judge
for the prestigious Cleo Awards because of his outstanding work in commercial music. Artie has
been teaching both privately and in schools throughout his professional career. He was a
founding faculty member of The New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music In New York. He
has also taught at the Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, at Monmouth College in
W. Long Branch, NJ, and is currently teaching at The Elefante School of Music in New
Providence, NJ. Artie has a B.A. in Music from Thomas Edison College and has a substitute
teacher’s license from the state of New Jersey. Artie would like to dedicate this performance to
his two children, Sarah and David, who are his real inspiration.
Best of luck to The Ridgewood Friends of Music as
they host their 1 st Virtual Concert!
Your Loyal Fans!!

Instrumentalist, composer, and arranger David Dallon is a graduate of Livingston College at Rutgers
University where he majored in music performance. The concentration of his study was at the Mason
Gross School of the Arts where he majored in performance studying with renowned performers and
educators Ralph Bowen, Paul Cohen & Kenny Barron. Proficient also on bass and keyboard, he
performs and records with various small and large ensembles including The Stardust Big Band and The
Dick Melodian Big Band and also as a solo artist in various churches and music venues throughout the
New York metro area. In the past, he has been heard on nationally broadcast television commercials and
in recent times was a headline performer the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey's annual
conferences.
Blue Plate Special plays the kind of music that can make you feel like you’re home
wherever you are. Whether playing traditional or original songs, their harmony rich
music is deeply rooted in the American tradition. Thematically eclectic, the songs will
take you on a bluegrass-style journey through life, from the absurdity of seeking fame to
the heartbreak of the blues. . Most recently, Blue Plate Special performed at The Joe
Val Bluegrass Festival in Boston and the NERFA Folk Alliance Conference in CT. Even
if you’ve never heard a lick of bluegrass, a night with Blue Plate Special will make you
realize this music was in you all along.
Band members: Nick Conte: Guitar/vocals Jay Friedman: guitar/fiddle/vocals, Dave
Gross: Mandolin/vocals, Tom Wise: Bass/vocals. Special guest: Bobby Baxmeyer:
dobro/banjo www.blueplatespecialmusic.com

As the winner of the Artists International Competition, Jennifer Green preformed in her New
York debut recital at Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall. An avid soloist and chamber musician, Ms.
Green has appeared in numerous concert series in the New York metropolitan area. In addition,
she was selected to perform at such prestigious festivals as the Ravinia, Aspen, and Blossom
music festivals, and was a featured artist on radio performances of WQXR in New York and
WGUC in Cincinnati. Ms. Green earned her B.A. and M.M. degrees from the Manhattan School
of Music as a scholarship student, where she was the winner of the concerto competition and
received the Pablo Casals Prize for outstanding musical accomplishment and promise. She
continued her studies at the Cincinnati Conservatory where she earned an Artist’s Diploma as a
student of Yehuda Hanani. Her teachers also include Marion Feldman, Peter Wiley, and Gerald
Beal. Since 1993, Ms. Green has been a faculty member of the Manhattan School of Music
Preparatory Division. She also maintains a private teaching studio. Jennifer resides in
Ridgewood, NJ with her two children, Charlotte and Liam, and her husband Mitch. Ms. Green
performs on an Alessandro Gagliano cello made in 1724.
Thank You for the Music...
Best Wishes to Friends of Music
The Martin Family
Maureen, Dennis
Jennifer, Liam and Ava

Jeffrey Haas, saxophone, has been Director of Bands at Ridgewood High School since 1988.
He currently conducts the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Lab Ensemble and the Saxophone Ensemble,
and co-directs the Concert Band, and Symphonic Band. Holding degrees in music education
from Syracuse and Columbia, Mr. Haas has been recognized several times for his contributions
to music education during his distinguished career. In 1998, he received the Disney American
Teacher Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Performing Arts, and was also named
"North Jersey Music Educator of the Year" by William Paterson University. In 2004, he was
named as the RHS recipient of the Ridgewood Teacher Recognition Award. In 2011, Haas was
the NJ recipient of School Band & Orchestra Magazine’s "Directors Who Make a Difference"
Award, and in 2013 he was a semi-finalist nominee for the first ever Grammy Music Educator
Award. In 2014, he was presented with the Jazz Education Achievement Award by the NJ
Association for Jazz Education. Mr. Haas has been a featured soloist with the Ridgewood
Symphony Orchestra and the Ridgewood Concert Band, and has performed with many noted
jazz musicians as a big band bari sax player. Mr. Haas directs his own professional jazz
ensemble, the Jazzmasters Big Band, and was an adjunct professor of jazz pedagogy at the
John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University for ten years. Mr. Haas lives in Glen
Rock, with his wife Cynthia, and their two daughters, Stefanie and Danielle.
Congratulations to the ELEMENTARY DIVISION Song Writer Winners!!
Rowan Aderhold - winner
Grade: 4, age 9, Hawes
Title of Piece: Untitled
Ava Dobbyn - encouragement award
Grade: 4, age 10, Willard
Title of Piece: The key to
somewhere

Mayumi Harada is excited to be part of the Friends of
Music concert with her husband Kenny Brescia. As a
singer-songwriter, she has released four albums with
AVEX Japan, and one CD book with SONY. As an author
she has written fifteen inspirational books that were
published in Japan and Korea. Her debut book publication
sold more than 750,000 copies in 2004 and was endorsed
by Ms. Yoko Ono. As an artist development specialist and
a vocal producer, she has worked with many J-POP and K-
POP stars. One of Mayumi’s albums from 2000 became
available in the US on Spotify and iTunes under the unit
name "Groove Crystal”. She is starting off 2021 hosting her
first online seminar presented by the most prestigious
Japanese magazine called Kateigaho and currently
working on her first translation project regarding a global
mega pop star band. As a “ Stage Mom” (for one year) she
toured the US and Canada with her youngest son Julian
who was cast as “Lawrence” in the First National Tour of
“School of Rock: The Musical”.

All members of HAWK are Ridgewood residents, all but one are parents of kids who went
through Ridgewood public schools, one is a graduate of the Ridgewood public school system,
and one is even the son of a teacher in the Ridgewood public school system. While all from
Ridgewood, Hawk brings together some very diverse musical backgrounds. Paul Herscheit got
his start singing in a church choir as a young boy, sang in an original punk rock band in the
1970's, and has been a singer in classic rock bands since he was a young man. Walter Kerner
comes from a finger-style acoustic guitarbackground. Tom Wise is heavily influenced by
Country music and bluegrass on bass. On lead guitar, Rich Albano has always been involved
in guitar-centered rock bands. Daniel Stewart on drums is a jazz and classical musician by
training who expanded to rock music over several years. Many of the group have played
professionally both nationally and internationally, and between them, they have over 160 years
of musical experience. Hawk was originally the brainchild of the acoustic duo of Walter Kerner
and Paul Herscheit. They brought in bassist Tom Wise and guitarist Richard Albano and
continued as an acoustic folk band for several years. The name HAWK is derived from the four
original members' names. When they decided to add Daniel Stewart on drums, the band
became more of a classic rock band; however, they never strayed far from their roots as a
vocal-oriented group. They play largely around Bergen County at bars, festivals, and private
parties. To reach Hawk, you can visit their website: www.hawk-music.com.
Just4(Kicks)
Just4(Kicks) is a quartet of four good friends whose
mission is to sing well, entertain, and share our love
of barbershop music. Ask us to sing a song and we'll
never say no! We met while singing in the Harmony
Celebration Chorus of Sweet Adelines International
and over the years became close friends. Since we
were always hanging out together, and there were
four of us after all, we decided to become a quartet.
Our repertoire consists of songs we've borrowed from
some of the very best men's and women's quartets to
ever sing in the barbershop style and some original
arrangements in the Just4(Kicks) style! We are Janet
Cebula, Beth Fulton, Jean Schoenlank, Diane
Sussuma.

David Langan’s vast professional operatic repertoire spans many of the major bass-baritone
roles, among them Mephistopheles in Faust, Sarastro & Sprecher in Die Zauberflöte, Colline in
La Bohème, Raimondo in Lucia di Lammermoor, Don Alfonso Cosi Fan Tutte, Seneca in
L’Incoronazione di Poppea, Basilio in Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Count Walter in Luisa Miller, and
Lord Gualtiero Walton in I Puritani. He has appeared as a principal singer in close to 800
performances with opera companies throughout North and Central America, as well as Europe.
San Francisco Opera, Houston Grand Opera, New York City Opera, On Site Opera,
Washington National Opera, Vancouver Opera, Theater Hansestadt Lübeck, Osnabrück
Stadttheater, Wolf Trap, Sarasota Opera, Opera Colorado, as well as the opera companies of
Guatemala City, Dallas, Atlanta, Austin, Chautauqua and New Orleans, among others, have all
been beneficiaries of Mr. Langan’s work. He also appeared as the King in Verdi’s Aida on the
PBS Great Performance series opposite Plaçido Domingo. He has shared the stage as principal
singer with many of today’s finest performers including Renee Fleming, Stephanie Blythe, Joyce
DiDonato, Eric Owens, Mirella Freni, and Lawrence Brownlee. Among his faculty appointments
were posts at Westminster Choir College, Indiana University, Shenandoah Conservatory and,
his current employer, Kean University. Mr. Langan grew up in Middletown, NJ, has vocal
performance degrees from Rowan University (BA) and Indiana University (MM), currently
resides in Ridgewood and is the father of 11 year old twins, Jamie & Sophie, who are sixth
graders at BFMS.
Congratulations to the MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION Song Writer Winners!!
Hemang Mittal - winner
Grade: 7, age 12, GW
Title of Piece: Sailing on a rainy evening
Brody Frers - encouragement award
Grade: 6, age 11, GW
Title of Piece: Back at 1 a.m.

John Lange, baritone appeared on Broadway in CHESS with Tony nominee Judy Kuhn. On
tour as Peron in EVITA with Robbie Benson, Karla Devito, and Tony nominee Ann Crumb.
John's U.S. tour with the National Opera Company found him singing leading roles in Don
Pasquale, The Marriage of Figaro and La Pericole. John has returned to National Opera to
direct and sing in the company's production of The Elixir of Love. He has sung in concert and
opera performances with the North Carolina Symphony, Bel Canto Opera, New Jersey Lyric
Opera, and the St. Luke Chamber Ensemble. John is the winner of the Sunwood Award for
Excellence in Musical Performance and was selected by the New York Foundation for the Arts
as Artist in Residence. John’s best role is as husband to Sherri and father to Kelsey and Justin.
The Ridgewood Arts Foundation is a proud sponsor of
Friends of Music!
We are also excited to co-host a virtual art and music tour to Ireland with FOM on
March 14th. Stay-tuned for more info!!

John W. Luckenbill III has been the Associate Director of Bands at Ridgewood High School
since the fall of 2011. He currently is the co-director of the Concert Band and Symphonic Band,
the director of the Marching Band and brass ensembles, and teaches 21st Century Music
Production at RHS, where they just opened up a new Recording Studio at RHS. Originally from
Shrewsbury, NJ, Mr. Luckenbill received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Michigan
State University in the spring of 2011, and his Master of Music in Music Education from Kent
State University in spring of 2016. Since beginning at RHS, Mr. Luckenbill has brought the RHS
Marching Band program to new heights; growing the membership from 81 to 116 students in 5
years, and recently earning a 2nd place finish at the 2018 US Bands National Championships,
winning the Cadets Award of Excellence for best demonstrating pride, professionalism, and
overall performance. The band was also featured on CBS-WLNY TV’s morning show, “The
Couch” during the fall of 2013. In 2016, Mr. Luckenbill was named a Positive-Coaching Alliance
“Double Goal Coach Award” winner (1 of only 50 in the United States) for his work with the
marching band. The award is given to coaches who strive to win while also teach life lessons
through their activity. Currently, Mr. Luckenbill plays trumpet with many ensembles throughout
New Jersey and can be found working as the bugler at Monmouth Park Racetrack during the
summer months. He most recently played for the 2015 Triple Crown winners, American
Pharoah, winning race at the Haskell Invitational. Mr. Luckenbill lives in Waldwick with his wife,
Lisa, their sons, William and Andrew, and their dog, Ruby.
Congratulations to the HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION Song Writer Winners!!
Jake Rubenstein - winner
Grade: 12, age 17
Title of Piece: The Airport
William Stewart - winner
Grade: 12, age 17
Title of Piece: String Quartet

David Maiullo, Chairman of the Board and Music Director of the Bravo Alliance of Performing
Artists, has been described by Opera News Magazine as "a pianist of sentiment, discretion and
style." Mr. Maiullo is an avid accompanist/coach in the New York City Metropolitan area. His
performances of over 2500 recitals and programs have led him to the stages of Carnegie Hall,
Avery Fisher, Alice Tully, and Merkin Concert Halls in the US as well as venues in Spain,
Portugal, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France, England, and Japan. He was awarded a
scholarship as an accompanist to the American Institute of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria, and
has been a recipient of a fellowship with Opera-Music Theater International with Jerome Hines.
Mr. Maiullo had the distinct honor of performing the European premiere of Gian Carlo Menotti's
Mass for its composer in Spoleto with the Ars Musica Chorale and has also performed in the
prestigious "Fringe Festival" in Edinburgh. Mr. Maiullo held the position of Chorus Master for the
New Jersey State Opera for eight seasons and he continues to be a lecturer and pianist for
operalogs and concerts with the company. As a collaborative pianist, New York Times critic
Bernard Holland wrote, "Mr. Maiullo's playing was sensitive and effective." Currently Mr. Maiullo
serves as the accompanist for the Gerda Lissner Foundation, Licia Albanese Puccini
Foundation, Career Bridges, and is the official Accompanist/Music Director for the
Altamura/Caruso Competition. In addition to serving as head of the BRAVO Alliance of
Performing Artists, he is the Musical Director of the Chamber Virtuosi Orchestra and the Music
Director of the Church of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Franklin Lakes. Mr. Maiullo holds
positions on the faculty of NYACK College where he is director of the Opera Workshop, New
Jersey City University, and is the Coach/Accompanist of the Musical Theater Class at the
Juilliard School of Music.

Christy Tarr-McVey made her Broadway debut as Mrs. Walker in "The Who's Tommy." She
was also a part of the first national tour of that same show. Other Broadway credits
include: "Annie - The 20th Anniversary Tour" with Nell Carter, and "Jekyll and Hyde" where she
played the roles of Kate and Emma. Christy's regional works include Ruby in "Dames at Sea",
and Nellie in "South Pacific". She has presented content in live industrials for such companies
as Mattel, Allstate, MasterCard and Pfizer, as well as commercials for Microsoft7, Magnavision
Eye Wear, Comcast, Allegra and Marie Callender’s. Christy can be seen in the film "After The
Fall" with stars David Duchovny and Timothy Hutton, as well as on “One Life to Live” in the role
of Francis Stoner. Ms. Tarr-McVey often performs in concert with her husband and
family. Currently, Christy runs her private vocal studio in Northern NJ teaching vocal technique,
character development, audition skills and much more. Christy is the Executive Director of the
St. Joseph Regional High School summer theatre camps where she also helps develop
curriculum. She regularly contributes content for Mind Power Performance, a business whose
mission is to elevate good.
David Stellmach - winner
Congratulations to the winner of our Song Writer’s ADULT DIVISION!!
Title of Piece: BLACK BOX
Instrumentation: Solo Piano
Description of Piece: BLACK BOX is a solo piano composition I wrote inside the Black Box theater of
Raritan Valley Community College, NJ. It was inspired by my favorite musician at the time, George
Winston. It is in A minor, and I hope you like it!

J. Mark McVey made his Broadway debut as Jean Valjean in 'Les Miserables' after winning the
Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Actor while in DC. The first American to perform Valjean in
London's West End, J. Mark also reprised the role with the Los Angeles Philharmonic to sold
out crowds at the Hollywood Bowl, and once again on the 25 th Anniversary Tour of Les
Miserables, where he won the Ovation Award and the Broadway.com Award. He has appeared
in more than 3,200 performances of the show. J. Mark McVey made his Carnegie Hall Debut
with the late Maestro Marvin Hamlisch and continues to perform with numerous symphonies
around the country and the world. J. Mark's television credits include America's Got Talent and
Days Of Our Lives. He made his PBS debut with the Boston Pops, and followed that with a
PBS Christmas Special for the U.S. Military Troups, where he was featured with Marvin
Hamlisch and The National Symphony Orchestra. He then appeared in the PBS Special ‘A
Tale of Two Cities in Concert.’ J. Mark's other Broadway, New York and tour credits are many,
including: The Who's Tommy (where Mark met his wife Christy Tarr - McVey), The Best Little
Whorehouse Goes Public, directed by Tommy Tune, Show Boat, directed by Harold Prince, Hey
Love written by Mary Rodgers and Richard Maltby Jr., A Helluva Town with Stan Freeman,
Midnight In The Garden Of Good And Evil with Margaret Whiting, Rocket Boys based on fellow
West Virginian Homer Hickam's best selling novel, Chess, Carousel, My Fair Lady and South
Pacific, to name a few. J. Mark was honored by the West Virginia State Education Alliance in
2001, and by Marshall University as a distinguished Graduate in 2006. He earned a double
platinum record for his participation on the Trans-Siberian Orchestra recording of 'The Lost
Christmas Eve'. J. Mark also has 3 solo CD’s: “Broadway and Beyond”, “If You Really Knew
Me” and “One Among Few”, as well as a Family Christmas CD. He recently added public
speaking to his list of accomplishments and regularly contributes content for a cutting edge
company, Mind Power Performance, a business whose mission is to elevate good. J. Mark
McVey’s greatest achievements are his two beautiful daughters, Grace and Kylie, a
collaborative effort with God and his incredible wife of 20 years, actress and singer, Mrs. Christy
Tarr-McVey. Mark thanks to God for his gifts, his family for their undying love and support and
to you for supporting the arts.

Jennifer Murray Montague, a Ridgewood Mom of four, can be seen in the upcoming feature film A CASE OF BLUE
as “Greta”; on Amazon Prime in the feature film BULLY as “Kathy Mulligan”; in various commercials, Audiobooks on
Audible, and voice overs. She can be seen on Team Umizoom on Nick Jr, and alongside Jesse Eisenberg, voicing
the role of “Tiny” in the game/app Rio Match 3. Theatre: Chess at Lincoln Center; Big Fat Cat; Helen and Teacher; A
Year with Frog and Toad; JC Superstar; The Secret Garden; Nunsense; The Fifth Season; Carousel; and many
more. She also wrote the Muriel’s World Book Series and voices a children’s podcast, “Peppermint Dreams”, for her
company Sweet Street Productions. Jen enjoyed performing with the Ridgewood New Players as a teen in Into The
Woods and Godspell! For more info: www.JenniferMontague.info.
Lisa Plasse is the owner, director and flute and voice teacher of From The Top Music Studio in Midland Park, NJ
which offers instrumental and vocal lessons. In addition to the studio, she is an applied vocal lessons instructor at
Columbia University. Ms. Plasse received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from William Paterson University,
with a concentration in flute and voice. She also holds a Masters Degree in Education Administration & Supervision
from Montclair State University. She has over 25 years of teaching experience K – 12, including special education.
Her credits include performances with Onstage Inc., several local community bands and church organizations,
numerous local pit orchestras and the Ridgewood Concert Band. Ms. Plasse served as both Vice-President and
President of the Board of Trustees of the Ridgewood Concert Band and during her presidency the band was awarded
The Sudler Silver Scroll Award. She has produced and directed many musicals, theater workshops and concert
performances. Ms. Plasse has served as President of The Ridgewood Friends of Music and continues to serve on
the board. Ms. Plasse is currently President of the Midland Park Chamber of Commerce and music director for
Jamboree 2021. Ms. Plasse resides in Ridgewood with her husband Michel and their four children Nick, Ashley,
Amanda and Brian.

Described as possessing a “shimmering soprano” (The New York Times) with “sparkle and
precision” (The Washington Post), Connecticut native Kristen Plumley has performed with
many opera companies throughout the country, including New York City Opera (Barbarina in Le
Nozze di Figaro), Virginia Opera (Norina in Don Pasquale and Zerlina in Don Giovanni),
Chautauqua Opera (Sophie in Werther), Lyric Opera of Cleveland (Despina in Così fan Tutte),
Amarillo Opera (Musetta in La Bohème), Greensboro Opera (Adina in L’Elisir d’Amore and Gilda
in Rigoletto), Opera Festival of New Jersey (Nannetta in Falstaff and Amor in Orfeo ed Euridice,
Boheme Opera (NJ) (Adele in Die Fledermaus), Opera Memphis (Yum-Yum in The Mikado) and
Nevada Opera (Josephine in H.M.S. Pinafore). On the concert stage Kristen has performed a
broad spectrum of works, from classical pieces (Mozart’s Coronation Mass and Haydn’s Mass in
Time of War at Carnegie Hall, Handel’s Messiah and Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony) to An
Evening of Gilbert and Sullivan with the symphony orchestras of St. Louis, Richmond, Memphis
and Minnesota. She also greatly enjoys pops concerts, and her favorite is Sci-Fi Spectacular
(music from science fiction movies and television shows, hosted by Star Trek series luminaries
such as George Takei, Jonathan Frakes and Marina Sirtis), which she has performed with the
Cleveland, Indianapolis, Seattle, Baltimore, Edmonton and Ottawa Symphonies, under the
baton of Maestro Jack Everly. In 2011 Kristen performed in the North American premiere of
Handel’s first opera, Almira, with operamission in New York City, and in 2015 created the role of
Ruth Draper in Verlezza Dance’s dance opera Icarus Rising, about real-life WWII freedom
fighter Lauro DeBosis. Because the pandemic has dashed all live performing arts opportunities
for the time being, Kristen is currently recording music for her church’s weekly Zoom services,
singing from the sidewalk to residents of local independent living homes, and recording new
works for several composers, in subjects ranging from modern poetry to Jewish liturgical music.
She is proud to be the president of the Ridgewood Friends of Music, a non-profit that supports
the excellent music program in her town’s public schools, and greatly appreciates the support of
her husband, Jeff, and fifteen-year-old twins, Annie and Henry, in all her endeavors. Please
visit her website at www.kristenplumley.com.

Jon Schmarak is the 5th Grade Instrumental teacher at Hawes, Ridge, and Willard elementary
schools. A veteran teacher of 11 years, Mr. Schmarak loves working with the students and being
responsible for their first introduction to the world of playing an instrument. Mr. Schmarak plays
in multiple ensembles of diverse genres, with his passion project of "Especially Everyone" where
live music is accommodated for those with special needs (see link below). He is also very
excited to start his graduate degree at Montclair State University in Music Therapy. Mr.
Schmarak received his BA in Music Education at William Paterson University, with a
concentration in Classical Trumpet. Mr. Schmarak hopes that all can find love and fun in music,
whether creating, watching, or inspiring it! Especially Everyone - www.especiallyeveryone.com
Sally Ann Skoric is thrilled to be a part of the Friends of Music concert! As a professional
singer and actress, her Broadway credits include Victor Victoria (starring Julie Andrews) and
Jekyll and Hyde. Other favorite roles include “Babette” in the Broadway National Tour of Beauty
And The Beast, and “Marta”in the Broadway National Tour of Kiss of the Spider Woman (with
Chita Rivera.) She has performed at The Public Theater, Carnegie Hall, Town Hall, Papermill
Playhouse, and more. Sally is a wife and mother to three incredible boys ages 12,15, and 19
and resides in Ridgewood N.J. She received a BFA in Musical Theater from the esteemed
Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. Sally Ann is also very proud of her success as a private voice
and acting coach and her students are thriving!

Dave Slomin is a Ridgewood dad, proud father of Jack & Alex, husband of Kathy, collector of too many
broken guitars and lead singer and songwriter for the indie-Americana band Waiting For Henry. In 2017,
the band’s latest album, Town Called Patience, spent the winter in heavy rotation on Sirius/XM’s The
Loft and saw Americana radio play across the country. Later this month, Waiting For Henry is going up to
sunny Hudson, NY to record album #3, with Tommy Stinson, former bassist for The Replacements and
Guns & Roses, producing. Find out more at www.waitingforhenry.com.
In loving memory of our dear friend Jean Thomas

Julian Kenji Brescia & Michael Akira Brescia
The boys are thrilled to be joining FOM concert playing one of Julian’s original tunes called “Neon Sound
Wave”. Julian has been an American Federation of Musician’s union NYC (Local 802) member as well a
member of SAG-AFTRA and Actor’s Equity union since 2018. He has toured with “School of Rock” the
Musical 1st National Tour at the age of 9 yrs old, cast as a keyboard player “Lawrence”. He has also been
featured as a guitar student in Sara Bareilles Apple TV Series “Little Voice”. He is a multi instrumentalist,
singer-songwriter. He was featured in Allegro Magazine (Local 802’s monthly news magazine) as a
youngest member.
Michael has also played “Lawrence” in the KOTA production of School of Rock the Musical. He is also a
multi instrumentalist and vocalist. His preferred instrument are drums and percussion.
**************************************************************************************************
Grace McVey is currently a sophomore at Baldwin
Wallace University. Grace’s regional credits include
Mama Murphy in “Bright Star,” Anybody’s in “West
Side Story,” and the hilarious role of Jessica
Cranshaw in “Curtains.” Grace was a part of the RHS
Marching Band for 4 years and lived every minute of
it! She was also a part of New Players, Band and
Choir. She is a Theater major in college.
Kylie McVey is a senior at Ridgewood High School.
Kylie’s credits include the role of Young Cosette on
the 25th Anniversary Tour of Les Miserable. She was
also a part of the off Broadway show A Day by the
Sea. Locally, Kylie has performed in many of the
shows at St. Joseph Regional High School. Her credits
include Janet in “The Drowsy Chaperone”,
Wednesday in “The Addams Family” and Margo in
“Bright Star.” Kylie has played in the RHS orchestra
all 4 years and is also in choir this year. She will be
majoring in Musical Theater in college.
**************************************************************************************************

What we do…
The Ridgewood Friends of Music is a non-profit, parent-run organization that raises money to
support the music programs in all Ridgewood Schools. We help to purchase and repair
instruments, offer performance opportunities for students, help to pay performance space rental
fees for some of the high school concerts, offer grants to music teachers, and provide
scholarships for students. On our website we maintain a private teacher listing, as well as
listings for local competitions, summer music camps and pre-college programs. Each year,
Friends of Music presents a concert that serves as its largest fundraiser. This year, several local,
professional musicians, including RPS faculty, are giving their time and talent to perform in the
genres of musical theater, opera, jazz and rock, and more.
Please visit our new website at www.ridgewoodfriendsofmusic.org to learn more about us!
Be a Friend of Music!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer,
please contact
Kristen Plumley at kiko_plumley@mac.com
If you would like to make a contribution, payments
can be made through Venmo.
@Kristen-Plumley-2

Calling all Ridgewood
Elementary and Middle School Students!!
The Young Musicians Virtual Showcase
Saturday, April 24, 2021
12:00pm – Elementary School Students
4:00pm – Middle School Students
The Ridgewood Friends of Music Young Musicians Showcase offers
younger musicians a chance to perform solo in front of a supportive
audience of family and friends.
• If interested in performing in this showcase, please email a 1 minute
video showcasing a portion of the piece you would like to perform to
Lisa Plasse at flute76@aol.com. You may play or sing any style and
genre of music.
• Applicants must also complete the application provided on the next
page and mail in a non-refundable $10 registration fee to:
Lisa Plasse at 906 Best Court; Ridgewood, NJ
• Duration of the piece should not be longer than 3 minutes.
• This is a fundraising concert, and Friends of Music is delighted to
accept donations to provide a Ridgewood student in need with a full
scholarship to the Ridgewood Summer Music Academy.
Submissions are due by March 22, 2021

Young Musicians Showcase Application
Student Name: _________________________________________________
School: _______________________ Grade: __________ Age: __________
Parent Name: _________________________________________________
Email: _______________________________________________________
Home Phone: _________________________________________________
Cell Phone: ___________________________________________________
Instrument: ____________________________________________________
Title of Piece: __________________________________________________
Composer: ____________________________________________________
Does your child study privately? _____ YES
_____ NO
Teacher Name: ________________________________________________
Does your child need an accompanist? _____ YES
Will your child bring an accompanist? _____ YES
_____ NO
_____ NO
If yes, Accompanist Name: _______________________________________
Please mail the completed application along with the non-refundable $10 registration
fee by March 22, 2021 to:
Lisa Plasse
906 Best Court
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Please make check payable to Ridgewood Friends of Music. Showcase details will be
emailed to you upon receipt of application, payment and video.
Questions??? Contact Lisa Plasse at flute76@aol.com

Calling all composers!!
The Ridgewood Friends of Music is pleased to announce the 3 rd Annual
Emerging Composer Competition
• This competition is open to middle school students, high school students, college
students and adults who live, work or attend school in Ridgewood, NJ. It is open
to amateur composers.
• If interested in entering this competition, please mail 4 copies of the complete
score along with recordings of your piece by November 1, 2021 to Kristen
Plumley at 169 Cottage Place, Ridgewood, NJ 07450.
• There are no restrictions on instrumentation or length of piece.
• There will be 1 winner chosen per category and the winners will be announced at
the Ridgewood Friends of Music Concert in January 2022.
For more in formation or to request an application, please contact
Kristen Plumley at kiko_plumley@mac.com

Emerging Composer Competition Application
Composer Name: __________________________________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________
Cell Phone: ______________________________ Email: ___________________________________________________
Please check one:
Middle School _______________ High School _______________ College _______________ Adult _________________
To be completed by Middle School, High School and College Students
School: _______________________________________________________ Grade/Year: __________ Age: __________
Parent Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Parent Email: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Parent Cell Phone: _________________________________________________________________________________
To be completed by all applicants
Title of Piece: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Instrumentation: ___________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Description of Piece: ________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Questions??? Contact Kristen Plumley at kiko_plumley@mac.com

Friends of Music Scholarship
The Ridgewood Friends of Music is pleased to offer a $1,000.00 scholarship to an
RHS graduating senior who:
1. Will be majoring in music at a four-year accredited college, university or
music conservatory
2. Plans to pursue a career in music (e.g. music education, vocal or
instrumental)
3. Has participated in the Music Department at Ridgewood High School
Requirements:
1. Please complete the application provided on the following page
2. Provide a letter of recommendation from a music teacher
3. Attach a short essay explaining how music has impacted your life and your
plans for the future through music.
The completed application along with recommendations is due by May 1, 2021.
This application is not to be turned in to the Guidance Department. It must be
mailed directly to Friends of Music.
Please mail all materials to:
Friends of Music
c/o Lisa Plasse
906 Best Court
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
The scholarship will be awarded to the winner at our annual Friends of Music
Luncheon in June. Date to be announced.
Questions??? – Please email Lisa Plasse at flute76@aol.com

Friends of Music Scholarship Application
Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
City: ____________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: _____________
Cell Phone: _______________________________ Email: _______________________________
Guidance Counselor: ____________________________________ Current GPA: _____________
Do you study privately? _____YES _____ NO
Teacher Name: ______________________________ Contact #: __________________________
Where have you applied to college?
1. _____________________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________________________
4. _____________________________________________________________
Intended Major: _________________________ Intended Career: ________________________
List all music experience/accomplishments at RHS and the Community.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
*Please list additional information on a separate piece of paper.
I/We certify that the information provided on this application is accurate.
______________________ ______________________ __________
Parent Signature Student Signature Date

The Joseph Genna Memorial Scholarship
Through a generous grant from Janis Genna Fuhrman, The Ridgewood Friends of
Music is pleased to offer a $1,000.00 scholarship to an RHS graduating senior
who:
4. Will be majoring or minoring in music at a four-year accredited college,
university or music conservatory
5. Plans to pursue a career in music (e.g. music education, instrumental,
music management)
6. Has participated in the Music Department at Ridgewood High School
Requirements:
4. Please complete the application provided on the next page
5. Attach a short essay explaining how music has impacted your life and your
plans for the future through music.
The completed application along with recommendations is due by May 1, 2021.
This application is not to be turned in to the Guidance Department. It must be
mailed directly to Friends of Music.
Please mail all materials to:
Friends of Music
c/o Lisa Plasse
906 Best Court
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
The scholarship will be awarded to the winner at our annual Friends of Music
Luncheon in June. Date to be announced.
Questions??? – Please email Lisa Plasse at flute76@aol.com

The Joseph Genna Memorial Scholarship Application
Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________
City: ____________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: _____________
Phone: _______________________________ Email: ___________________________________
Guidance Counselor: ____________________________________ Current GPA: _____________
Do you study privately? _____YES _____ NO
Teacher Name: ______________________________ Contact #: __________________________
Where have you applied to college?
5. _____________________________________________________________
6. _____________________________________________________________
7. _____________________________________________________________
8. _____________________________________________________________
Intended Major, and Minor, if applicable: _________________________
Intended Career: _____________________________________________
List all music experience/accomplishments at RHS and the Community.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
*Please list additional information on a separate piece of paper.
I/We certify that the information provided on this application is accurate.
________________________ _________________________ __________
Parent Signature Student Signature Date

****************************************************************************************************
Be the proud owner of a Friends of Music T-Shirt
Show your love of music and appreciation for the excellent teachers and music programs in our
public schools. Buy a t-shirt for $20.
No cash? No problem! You can order signs on the RHS Bands website at rhsbands.org, and
click on “Fundraising”. Pay online and the T-shirt will be dropped off at your house!
***Remember to wear your T-shirt for the month of March - Music in Our Schools Month.***
***********************************************************************************************************************
Acknowledgements
First and foremost to John Lange for creating this special evening
Kristen Plumley – organizing this wonderful evening, publicity
Gail Ghezzi Design – Poster design
Lisa Plasse – Program Layout & Design
Friends of Music Board – many hands make lighter work!
Video by Janos – Craig Janos
Evan Hoehn

FRIENDS OF MUSIC BOARD MEMBERS 2020 – 2021
Kristen Plumley, President
Board Members
Meri Aderhold – Hawes Elementary School
Yoomi Choi – Ridgewood High School
Linda Chuang – Ridgewood High School
Mayumi Harada – Somerville Elementary School, Benjamin Franklin Middle School
Patricia Lee – Ridge Elementary School
Hamsavani Krishnappa – Willard Elementary School
David Langan – Travell Elementary School
Shirley Rollins – George Washington Middle School
Julie Stewart – Ridgewood High School
Diane Van Aken – Ridgewood High School
Min-Ying Wang – Orchard Elementary School
Members at Large
Sarah Ahn
Kenny Brescia
Anne Dupont
Lisa Ertle
Lisa Plasse
Ashley Yoon

Karin Amano, the Japanese storyteller for schools, libraries and festivals.
www.JapaneseStoryteller.com
Congratulations to the Ridgewood Friends of Music!!
You can’t stop the beat!!
We appreciate all that you do for our kids and the support you
provide to our teachers and their programs.
Thank you!!

Maitre Jacques salute Ridgewood musicians!