Sophia Morrone: Inspiring the Next Generation

Sophia Morrone, who will attend Rider University this fall, has immersed herself in music from a young age. A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and passionate mentor, Sophia has performed in choirs, bands, and musicals, while also serving as a student teacher for her district’s middle school choir. Her leadership as Drum Major of the marching band and section leader in jazz band, as well as her soloist honors in the All South Jersey and New Jersey All State Choirs, speak to her dedication and artistry.

Sophia’s journey is deeply personal:

“Music has always been my guiding light,” Sophia shares. “Whether I’m on stage or helping younger students find their own voices, I feel a sense of joy and purpose that nothing else can give me. I hope to inspire others, just as my mentors have inspired me.”

Her vision for the future is clear—Sophia aspires to balance performing and teaching, ensuring that music continues to enrich both her life and the lives of those she teaches.

Rowan Mendel: A Life in Music, A Voice for Connection

Rowan Mendel, who will join Princeton University as part of its inaugural class of cello performance majors, found his calling with the cello at age nine. Since then, Rowan has become principal cellist for multiple orchestras, including the New Jersey Youth Symphony and the Sussex County Youth Orchestra. His repertoire spans Bach to Tchaikovsky, and his recent performance at NJPAC with a Holocaust-era cello for the Violins of Hope project was a transformative experience.

Rowan reflects:

“Music has taught me to listen deeply and to offer something meaningful to the world. On stage, I realized music isn’t just what I do—it’s what I can give. I am choosing a life in music because I believe in its power to bring beauty, connection, and healing.”

Rowan’s commitment to using music as a tool for empathy and remembrance exemplifies the values at the heart of Music in the Somerset Hills.

 Featuring:

Jasmine Meyer, Madelin Morales, Helen Cho, Nicole Streger, Emma Mistele, & Liz Leclerc