“It’s relationship building. When you come into a space with us, we’re trying to transform your life.”
– Kendall Isadore, violinist, The String Queens
The String Queens — a dynamic Washington D.C.-based trio — collaborated with our Youth Orchestras and students from Fitchburg Memorial Middle School in April to rehearse, perform, and explore the joys of connecting through music. The evening ended with a special meeting of The String Queens with the Boston Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., thanks to Groton Hill Board member Cathy-Ann Alexander and Kathy Martindale, Immediate Past President of the Chapter.
With guest artist experiences like these, Groton Hill presents a life-changing opportunity to young musicians not only in our Youth Orchestras, but to students in partner public schools, to make music at a high level. This year, we were joined by string students from Fitchburg Memorial Middle School! Thanks to The String Queens, the event was nothing short of exciting, impactful, and eye-opening.
“To just see them blossom and grow, physically but also mentally,” said Dawn Johnson, violist, “has been really special for us today. We were able to create with them today.”
In conversation, the trio emphasized how important it is to them to be authentic and approachable in a teaching environment. By removing the barriers of intimidation students are able to really let go and become a part of the creative process.
“It absolutely has to be interactive,” said Dawn. “We came in, told them our end goal, and said, ‘Hey, I’m going to hold your hand the entire way, but at some point, I’m going to have to release you, and it’s going to be okay. We’ve set you up for success. Now you have to trust yourself and trust the process.’”
After the concert, Groton Hill facilitated a wonderful moment between artists and patrons. The String Queens were celebrated by members from across the Tri-State, in an outing coordinated by the Boston Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.! Violinist Kendall Isadore of The String Queens is a member of the sorority, and was able to share her love for music with her sisters, both on and off the stage.
“We are especially thankful to our Boston Alumnae chapter member and Groton Hill Music Center Board member, Cathy-Ann Alexander, for making this opportunity possible,” said Kathy Martindale, Immediate Past President of the Boston Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “Learning more about the mission of Groton Hill and witnessing its impact on the community reaffirmed for us how music has the power to touch our hearts and bring us together in ways words alone cannot. We are grateful to have been part of this meaningful experience and look forward to supporting more events like this in the future!”
Cathy-Ann Alexander, Groton Hill Music Center Board Member, added, “Being part of Groton Hill Music Center is truly a phenomenal experience. When I heard The String Queens were returning, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to introduce my Sorority Sisters from the Boston Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. to one of New England’s best-kept secrets. It was an evening of powerful music, vibrant energy, and meaningful connection between Groton Hill, the audience, Boston Alumnae Chapter, and The String Queens. Thank you, Groton Hill, for your support in creating such an amazing, warm, and an unforgettable experience for all!”
Learn more:
Photo 1: The String Queens onstage in the Concert Hall before being joined by Youth Orchestras and Fitchburg students.
Photo 2: Fitchburg Memorial Middle School students in rehearsal with the Sinfonia Concert Orchestra, just before performing onstage together with The String Queens.
Photo 3: The String Queens in Meadow Hall with the Boston Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Groton Hill Board Member Cathy-Ann Alexander
Photo 4: The String Queens violinist Kendall Isadore with Michelle Vital, one of the Arts & Letters Committee Coordinators, Boston Alumnae Chapter.