Griffon String Quartet Makes International Debut

The Griffon String Quartet visited the Lunenburg Academy of Music Performance in Nova Scotia to focus on its musicianship, provide youth outreach and perform its international debut.

During the summer of 2021, Griffon members Vinicius Sant’Ana (violin), Blakeley Menghini (viola) and Ryan Louie (cello) performed with Oberlin College-based Verona Quartet violinists John Ong and Dorothy Ro at New York’s Caroga Lake Music Festival, with additional musicians from around the country.

Following the performance, Ro asked the Griffon members whether they would like to attend the Lunenburg Academy. Joined by the fourth member of the quartet, violinist Ji-Yeon Lee, the Griffon engaged in individual practice, extensive rehearsals, master classes, student outreach and its sold-out international concert debut.

“The whole trip seemed like a highlight, but working with the Verona definitely was the reason why we were there,” Louie said. “Their knowledge and experience as a world-class string quartet was so inspiring. They really helped shape our time in Lunenburg.”Visit midsummersmusic.com to learn more.