Tokyo musicians captivate Sonoma students

The Tokyo ensemble Stella String Quartet performed in Sonoma and in Davis late last month at the invitation of nonprofit Sonoma Cultural Exchange. sonomaculturalexchange.org

On Monday, September 18, the ensemble visited students at El Verano Elementary School and led two music sessions for all students, playing examples of both classical and Japanese music. They introduced their instruments - violin, viola and cello - and demonstrated how they differ in sound and range. In addition, they gave students an opportunity to try them out.

Finally, the musicians had time with members of the Valley Vibes Orchestra and took pictures in front of a mural that the school that portrays a best friend of the Stella Quartet cello player.

“This turned out to be a very successful event and the musicians were able to captivate students of all ages,” said new Valley Vibes director Klara Crean.