June 8, 2026- Students at Intermediate East, Intermediate South, High School North, and High School South recently enjoyed a memorable musical experience as internationally-acclaimed violinist Ji in Yang and pianist Audrey Abela visited schools as part of a collaborative initiative between the district’s music program and the Music Department at Ocean County College. The performances provided students with an opportunity to hear exceptional musicians perform live while learning about the dedication and training required to pursue careers in music.

Ji in Yang, a South Korean violinist who began studying music at age 6, has performed throughout the world in prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and London’s Wigmore Hall. A graduate of The Juilliard School and Yale University, Yang shared insights into her international performing career and the dedication required to achieve success as a professional musician.

French pianist Audrey Abela has performed across the United States, South America, and Europe, appearing at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In addition to her performing career, Abela is a dedicated educator who studied at the Manhattan School of Music and is completing doctoral studies at the CUNY Graduate Center. She encouraged students to pursue their interests and shared her passion for music as a means of building connections and community.

Together, Yang and Abela captivated students with performances that showcased technical excellence, artistry, and collaboration. Following the performances, students participated in engaging question-and-answer sessions, where they asked about everything from practice routines and performance nerves to musical training and career pathways. The musicians shared personal stories and advice, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with professional artists and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of music.

"The district is grateful for this partnership with Ocean County College, which provide students with meaningful opportunities to engage with accomplished professional musicians and experience the transformative power of live performance," said music teacher Dr. Josh Melson. "Programs such as these help inspire the next generation of musicians while reinforcing the value of arts education and lifelong learning."

See a snippet from the fantastic performance below.