FIRST ROW: Olivia Acosta, Lillia Choi, Dia Cohen, Eve Raisch; SECOND ROW: Reya Emmes, Jasper Zoe Fernandes, Amelia Graham. UNABLE TO ATTEND: Gloria Bakinahe, Elizabeth Budesheim, Michaela Cedeño, Bella Norton, Nikolas Pavero. Photo courtesy of MPAC
(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- Students from Mt. Olive, Dover, Chester/Washington Twp., Rockaway, Mendham, Florham Park, Harding, Roxbury, Randolph, Parsippany, Boonton and Pequannock were honored as Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) Music Students of the Month – Outstanding Vocalists -- at the Saturday, February 14, 2026 performance by Linda Eder.
Students were nominated by their teachers, based on their commitment to and excellence in the performing arts.
The Theatre will honor a group of students every month throughout the season and invites area teachers to nominate students for this honor. A year end recital will be held in June.
The students honored include Olivia Acosta, Gloria Bakinahe, Elizabeth Budesheim, Michaela Cedeño, Lillia Choi, Dia Cohen, Reya Emmes, Michael Fielding, Jasper Zoe Fernandes, Amelia Graham, Bella Norton, Eve Raisch, and Nikolas Pavero. Here is a look at each with a note from their instructors.
Olivia Acosta (Grade 12; West Morris Central High School; Nominated by Mark Stingle). Olivia Acosta has been in the choral program for the past 3 years and become a leader in every way. She is our VP in charge of Social Media, a leader of the Alto 2 section, in the Concert Choir (auditioned group after school), the co-leader of the Treble Acapella group, the Loreleis, has been accepted into Morris Area Honor Choir 3 years and All-State for the past 2 years. She is also a featured National Anthem singer at many sporting events at West Morris Central, and she has participated as a lead or featured role for four years in the school's drama program. All of this is on top of being an outstanding student in the IB program and performing as a professional artist after her appearance on The Voice as a freshman. Her humble nature is what stands out and makes her such an excellent choral singer, and a joy to have in the classroom.
Gloria Bakinahe (Grade 8; Mount Olive Middle School; Nominated by Joanna Scarangello) Gloria is an outstanding young woman who absolutely shines vocally and academically. Gloria is a true leader in the choral ensemble, as she is always on task, focused, and working hard to support her peers with her singing. She is naturally a gifted singer, which is only enhanced by her admirable work ethic and desire to improve and be at her best at all times. Gloria is regularly selected for Honor Choirs and has even been featured as a soloist on multiple occasions at these prestigious events. Gloria lights up the room with her talents and her love of music.
Elizabeth Budesheim (Grade 11; Pequannock Valley High School; Nominated by William Arnold) Elizabeth is a standout vocalist for our a cappella group, the Nocktaves, and a dedicated member of our choir. She works tirelessly and takes her craft very seriously. A three-year lead singer with the Nocktaves, she has already played two major roles on the PTHS stage — Cady in Mean Girls and Blanche in Bonnie & Clyde. Most recently, she has stepped into a leadership role as Music Director of our fall touring production, Annie Kids, a show produced entirely by students. Given her strong musical skills and exceptional work ethic, selecting Miss Budesheim for this position was an easy choice!
Michaela Cedeño (Grade 11; Dover High School; Nominated by John Hoferer) Michaela exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated student. Throughout these past three years, I have seen the emergence of a highly motivated, assertive, mature, and compassionate student who excels at every aspect of her education. Michaela is consistently striving for greatness, specifically as a leader in the music department. Additionally, Michaela is an avid performer at Dover High School, performing in chorus, the concert band, and the spring musical. Finally, Michaela has cemented herself as one of the premier performers at Dover High School.
Lillia Choi (Grade 8; Ridgedale Middle School; Nominated by Andrea Lynch) Lily demonstrates strong musical ability, a positive attitude, and a genuine enthusiasm for singing. She consistently demonstrates a willingness to practice, listen, and improve. In rehearsals, Lily comes prepared, follows directions, and works well with peers, contributing to a respectful and supportive group environment. She often leads her peers in the "fun" parts of choir, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Lily is receptive to feedback and makes noticeable efforts to apply it, showing maturity and responsibility beyond her grade level. This experience would support Lily’s continued growth as a confident singer while reinforcing teamwork, discipline, and a love of music.
Dia Cohen (Grade 12; West Morris Mendham High School; Nominated by Patricia Danner) Dia Cohen is an outstanding young musician whose dedication, leadership, and love of music have made a meaningful impact on the Mendham High School Choir. Over her four years in choir, Dia has grown into a confident and insightful vocalist, recognized for her deep musical understanding and genuine empathy for others. As a member of Mendham Voices, Ladies in Red, and Morris Area Honor Choir, she brings heart, intelligence, and purpose to every performance, often helping her peers discover the meaning and emotion behind the music. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Dia has been a remarkable leader as Choir President and Student Director of Ladies in Red. Organized, dependable, and always one step ahead, she plays an essential role in rehearsals and performances while creating a positive, supportive environment for everyone around her. Dia’s quiet leadership, attention to detail, and genuine care for others elevate every ensemble she’s part of. Her passion for music, combined with her kindness and perseverance, truly embodies the spirit of a Music Student of the Month.
Reya Emmes (Grade 7; Rockaway Valley School; Nominated by Sara Bartel) Reya is an extremely talented vocal musician. Reya is a quiet individual but shines in choir and on stage. She has been an active member of the school musical, and is a current member of the Upper Grade Chorus. This year, she auditioned for the Morris Area Honor Choir and was selected to participate with other students around the county. Reya works hard on being the best vocalist she can be by asking questions and coming in for extra help to practice. This passion is shown in her performances.
Michael Fielding (Grade 6; Harding Township School; Nominated by Rachel Gareau) Michael is an extremely gifted singer. Though it is only his first year in middle school chorus, he held leading roles in 4th and 5th grade in the school musical, and will have a featured role in the middle school musical this year. He has an incredibly clear tone and sense of pitch. He also thoroughly enjoys to sing, and I would love to find ways to continue encouraging him. I think this would be a wonderful opportunity to recognize his talent and ability. I'm not sure if these students still get an opportunity to perform later in the year; if so he would be a wonderful addition to your program. Thank you in advance for your consideration.
Jasper Zoe Fernandes (Grade 12; Roxbury High School; Nominated by Patrick Hachey) I have known Jasper for 6 years, first as a participant in my summer theater program, and then as a member of the Roxbury High School Choral Program During that time, I have seen immense growth in Jasper as a musician, singer, artist, and person. Jasper has been inolved in every possible aspect of the Choral and Theater program at Roxbury since entering as a freshman. During their time at Roxbury High School, Jasper has participated in the Freshman Treble Choir (1 year), Classic sounds Honors (3 years) Melodies (a select treble choir - 4 years), Sensation (select jazz choir- 2 years), Revelation (top jazz choir - 2 years), and Madrigals (2 years), and currently serves as the President of the Roxbury High School Choral program. In addition, Jasper has auditioned for and made every honor choir that they have ever auditioned for: North Jersey Region Choir (4 years), NJ All State Choir (3 years), NJACDA Honor Choir (1 year), and ACDA All Eastern Choir (1 year). Besides being an outstanding choral musician, Jasper is also an accomplished soloist in multiple styles. Last year, Jasper voiced Audrey II in our production of Little Shop of Horrors, and is currently in rehearsal for this year's production of 9 to 5, playing the role of Judy. They have been taking voice lessons for the past 6 years and currently is a member of my private voice studio. Jasper is equally comfortable belting contemporary Broadway tunes as they are executing a Mozart aria or Schubert lied. They are currently applying to multiple schools to study Voice Performance for their bachelor's degree. I can't imagine a more deserving candidate for this honor.
Amelia Graham (Grade 8; Black River Middle School; Nominated by Kathleen Vespignani) Amelia has been a member of the chorus at Black River for three years, as well as a member of the auditioned-only Select Chorus for three years. She is often a soloist in our choral groups. After three years of teaching her, I have seen Amelia blossom into a magnificent musician and performer. Amelia comes to rehearsals and performances with incredible enthusiasm and a love of singing! Amelia takes private voice lessons outside of school and actively participates in musical theater and other acting opportunities, in addition to her many school activities. Amelia truly exemplifies what a great musician is!! She is a versatile singer and learns quickly; she has a great vocal range and beautiful vocal quality. She certainly has potential to become a professional singer/performer. She is an amazing young woman and singer.
Bella Norton (Grade 8; Randolph Middle School; Nominated by Ann Kelly) Bella has been in choir and orchestra since 4th grade and has always taken opportunities to do extra. In 5th grade she was selected for the Region 1 Elementary Honors Orchestra Festival, where she placed 1st chair in the Capriccio Ensemble. She also enhanced her elementary school choir experience by joining orffamaniacs, where she played the xylophone in addition to singing. In middle school, Bella has been a member of the select ensembles, Canzonetta and ConBrio, as well as regular choir and orchestra. She loves performing in concerts. She has also taken several music elective classes ane attended vocal and orchestra summer camps. At home, Bella enjoys writing covers for songs ane ven writing some of her own original songs that include instrumental and vocal parts! She aspires to be an official songwriter one day.
Eve Raisch (Grade 8; Brooklawn Middle School; Nominated by Danielle Hazel) I would like to nominate Eve, a strong and confident singer who is a leader in our chorus. She participates positively every day, sets a great example for others, and is always engaged and prepared during rehearsals. In addition to her musical ability, Eve consistently demonstrates excellent behavior and a positive attitude. She is respectful, dependable, and a pleasure to work with, making her a wonderful choice for outstanding vocalist.
Nikolas Pavero (Grade 8; John Hill School; Nominated by Yvonne Manca) Nikolas has been an asset to the choir program here at John Hill School. Nikolas consistently demonstrates exceptional musical ability and dedication in choir, setting a high standard for both performance and professionalism. He learns the music quickly, sings with confidence and accuracy, and contributes a strong, well-balanced tone that elevates the entire ensemble. Beyond his vocal skill, he shows outstanding commitment by coming prepared, supporting fellow singers, and maintains a positive and respectful attitude during rehearsals and performances. Nikolas' leadership, reliability, and passion for choral music makes him deserving of this recognition.
Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatres, and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.
The 2025-2026 season is made possible, in part, by a grant the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as support received from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation and numerous corporations, foundations and individuals.
