This month, our Springboard SPOTLIGHT shines on Violinist Cyrano Jett Rosenstrater, one of our 2024 Springboard Grant Winners and recipient of the special Peter Benoliel & Willow Carey Award for a Violinist.
Cyrano Jett Rosenstrater, Violinist
At what age did you begin performing and what inspired you to do so?
Performing is an exhilarating task, and I feel lucky that I was able to start early, at the age of four. In my opinion, there is always an element of risk in music-making. When I perform, I like to embrace the risk, which allows me to have fun on stage.
What was the most exciting thing that’s happened to you as you’ve pursued the performing arts?
I find learning to be incredibly exciting; I consider learning from mentors to be a crucial part of my journey. I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with Kimberly Fisher (my violin teacher) and Thomas Weaver (my composition teacher). They’ve taught me so much; not just about technique, but about finding my voice in what I create. My first music teachers, Scott Wagner, Dr. Ariane Alexander and Nina Wilkinson, were cornerstones of that process.
What are some stumbling blocks you’ve encountered along the way?
I’ve faced denial from programs, honors, and competitions many times. It’s important to not let stumbling blocks discourage you. Tenacity and perseverance are important—if a door doesn’t open upon persistent knocking, ”kick down said door”!
Dream big … If you can envision achieving great success in the performing arts, describe what that would that look like?
My idea of great success in the performing arts is being able to make any story work. I want to create authentic experiences that spellbind the audience—in this way, I would love to have complete freedom in how I create these experiences.
What’s your favorite genre of music and why?
I enjoy several genres of music, and I think it’s important to mix it up! I constantly look for new music to listen to. However, at the top of my playlist right now are electrojazz, barbershop, and lots of modern classical music.
Have you ever met a really famous performing artist and if so, who was it and what was your interaction?
A few years ago, I had the incredible opportunity of having a violin masterclass with internationally acclaimed violin soloist Hilary Hahn. It was very insightful and humbling to learn from someone of her caliber.
Describe what you think would be the most useful or beneficial thing to you, if given the opportunity to mentored by a successful artist?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have been mentored by successful artists over the years. What I’ve found most valuable in mentorship is the guidance to stay true to yourself while still pushing to improve. It’s not just about learning skills—it’s about finding balance too.
As a performing artist, what stands in the way of fulfilling your dreams?
Sometimes, it’s easy to feel like there are too many voices telling you what you should do instead of following your instincts. A large obstacle can be tuning out the stress and focusing on what really matters—connecting with others through your art.
If you could have lunch with an A-list performing artist, who would that be?
I would love to have lunch with Bryn Terfel. His ability to blend storytelling with powerful vocal delivery is inspiring, and I’d relish the chance to talk to him about his approach to character and performance.
How do you get to Carnegie Hall?
Practice, practice, practice! Along with a calendar, email and a fighting spirit!
Favorite Musician: Any musician who strives to connect with their audience
Favorite Musical Instrument: All of them!
Favorite Actor: Alfred Molina
Favorite Actress: Tara Strong
Favorite Comedian: Seth MacFarlane
Favorite Dancer: I think Philadelphia Ballet is amazing
Favorite Movie: Bao
Favorite Show: Cosmos
If you couldn’t be a performing artist, what would you like to do?
I would love to be an author, or a radio show host!
My most recent accomplishments:
• Semifinalist for 2025 Sphinx Competition (final round will occur in January 2025)
• 2025 YoungArts Winner in Classical Music/Violin.
• Jr. Peace and Music Ambassador 2024; First Prize in Harmony for Peace Foundation Strings Competition.
Biography
Cyrano Jett Rosentrater is a Philadelphia based violinist-composer pursuing the creation of authentic musical experiences. Cyrano attends the J.R. Masterman HS and is a Primavera artist, first violinist of the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, recipient of the SPHINX MPower Grant in 2022, and the Marian Anderson Grant for Young Artists in 2018.
