Take a deep dive into the beautifully wrapped world of music as cellist Sujari Britt fills the universe with mesmerizing notes and captivating sound! Hailing from New York City, New York, Sujari began her musical journey on the cello at the tender age of 4 years-old! Sujari uses her prodigious talent to pursue her passion and blaze a powerful pathway for moving the world. 

From being invited to showcase her incredible talent at the White House for President Obama to performing numerous recitals at Carnegie Hall, Sujari continues to blossom while astounding and inspiring audiences worldwide! Among her recent and upcoming performance exploits, Sujari performed in Beijing, China in the Beijing Super Cello Festival (2018). In February 2019, Sujari was a featured artist at Musiikkotalo, Cellofest Opening Gala in Helisinki, Finland. This summer, Sujari traveled to Bari, Italy where she will return in September to participate in exclusive international master classes. Also in September, Sujari will be back in the USA to perform Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor with the Rogue Valley Symphony Orchestra, Ashland, Oregon.

Sujari  is the distinguished recipient of prestigious academic scholarships and awards, and grand prize winner of several national and international competitions. 

Sujari recently earned her Bachelor of Music degree  in Classical Cello Performance at  Manhattan School of Music in New York City. She presently studies with world renowned cellist and pedagogue Martti Rousi, Sibelius Academy in pursuit of her Master’s of Classical Cello. 

In addition to her solo performance calendar, Sujari actively participates in the chamber arena. Among a variety of chamber troupes in her portfolio, Sujari is a member of JoSunJari, a classical string trio with her sister Joelle and her brother Sunnaj,  who both play the violin. Sujari also is a member of Helsinki Chamber Orchestra.

Let’s get to know Sujari a little better…

You began your incredible journey as a cellist at the young age of 4 years old! What initially triggered your interest to play? At what moment did you know this was your passion + purpose? 

I fell in love with the cello’s depth and resonance, having been en-rapt by Yoyo Ma’s rendering of Saint Saens’ Swan. It was not the first time that I had heard the piece, for classical and all genres of music were constantly being pumped through our days as students of home-schooling; but I was struck and held fast at a moment. I listened, and I felt that I was hearing a reflection of my own strong voice; as if I could feel the message of the cello’s sweet sorrowful swoon. Saint Saens’ message seemed to speak to me- a clear message of a longing, a need. Moved to tears, I was caught up in emotion and intrigue; the cello captured my soul and I willed that it would carry my voice.

 You have accomplished countless jaw-dropping achievements! From playing for President Obama in the White House to sharing your gift on global stages with renowned musicians, what accomplishment makes you most proud + why?  

Through the cello, I have enjoyed myriad experiences and individuals whom I might not otherwise have encountered; including new subscribers to classical music, as well as vested connoisseurs. Having the ability and opportunities to play permit me to lengthen my reach in the world. My joy comes from touching other souls, so each of my experiences holds special treasures for me.

Watching you play the cello is extremely captivating + instantly pulls the audience into a beautiful journey, where does the music take you in that very moment in time? 

I simply abandon myself to the music! The better I can tune in to the composer’s contexts- era, style, personal history, emotional texture, story- the further the music carries me, and the more complete is my rendering. I try to embody the composer’s will, and let the cello serve to voice the adventure.

Music can be a melting pot of who you are and the inspiration around you. Who and what inspires you to express yourself on a daily basis? 

My ardor is to seek out and to accept a responsibility to move the world, note by note; ear by ear; mind by mind. Specifically, this means looking for ways to be present each day; reminding myself that the end goal for my endeavors is both influenced by and is ever a part of the path that I choose for achieving it. If I can meaningfully commune with a single other mind every day, only then am I accountable for making use of and contributing to the inspiration that this rich gift of a life of music spurs in me.

Being young, juggling responsibilities while living your dreams can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

I have adopted the mantra to “fail forward.” For me, failing forward means that I can use ‘misses’ or moments of low energy to inform, innovate and drive my next steps. By focusing on where I am- and not just on where I want to go, I allow myself the space to experience each moment, as well as the time to strategize my next steps.

I believe that in addition to accepting defeat as a part of the path to success, it is important to know when to regroup. For me, this sometimes means that I shift gears and do something else for a bit: Relax, reflect, let go…then, redouble efforts with renewed perspective and motivation.

We are all about empowerment, what does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?

In my mind, ‘empowerment’ has to do with taking the responsibility to free oneself to be. In order to be free, it is essential to celebrate talents, recognize penchants and fantasies, and uncover and confront areas for development. I believe that it is important to set up check-points to ask ourselves: Where do I shine? What do I wish? What do I not know?

What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions but are nervous or intimidated?

I offer my encouragement to all dreamers! I believe that each of us deserves the joy of having self-worth; a delight that can be achieved if we learn to dream big and set small, achievable goals for getting there. Incremental steps may mean that your journey will not result in an overnight sensation; yet, some of the most profound achievements are reached over time, space, and personal growth.

Nervousness and anxiety are par for the course. In fact, there are bound to be moments when the going may seem tougher than you imagine yourself to be. USE that energy, and find partners, colleagues, and supporters who are willing and available to hear you and to cheer you on. Regardless of how steep the climb, how long the journey, and how seemingly far-fetched the goal, you are almost never alone in your endeavors, unless you choose to be. Remember, our humanity binds us. GO FOR IT!

Time for faves! Artist? Food? Movie? 3 songs currently on your playlist?

I spend my spare time painting and doing photography- from photographing to development and printing. I enjoy cooking and baking gourmet (vegan) dishes- I have a penchant for Mediterranean and Asian styles and flavors. I also enjoy long-distance walking, and recently re-learned biking: LOVing it!  I listen to an eclectic variety of music; Little Dragon and Tigran Hamasyan are on my playlist, these days.

Follow +  learn more + follow Sujari’s journey here:

Website  

The singing duo Chole and Halle have taken the entertainment industry by storm. The two sisters (ages 18 and 20) have a total of four albums together so far featuring songs that are acknowledged by many people, such as Filmmaker Ava Duvernay in her hit adaptation of “A Wrinkle In Time”. It is unquestionable that they have accomplished so much during the past few years. Here are a few reasons why they are both of our Music Goals!

1. Their music is written and produced for them, by them. The duo was nominated for two Grammy’s this year for their debut album “the kids are alright”. An album that the two wrote together in their living room and self produced. Talk about independence!

2. They’ve gained fans such as Beyoncé, the woman who is to thank for signing them to her label, and Michelle Obama! Having support from former first lady Michelle Obama is anyone’s goal.

3. The two started off uploading themselves singing covers of songs on YouTube. Their talent and perseverance hustled a path for them to become adored and respected musicians and performers in front of crowds by the millions. Exhibiting leadership and empowering many young women of color to chase their dreams.

~ Jada Jackson, Teen Blogger

We bet you can’t find interns doper than ours? From bomb interviews to fresh write-ups, our squad is covering a variety of topics for C.O.R.E mag this summer so stay tuned! Meet our amazing crew from Bela High School in Brooklyn!

CORE Crew: Naomi Aubin, Sanaya Brister, Melanie Santiago, Mariam Sikiru, Jada Jackson , Taffia Evelyn

Melanie: What is your dream job?

My dream job is to become a writer because it is a very vulnerable form of art which allows people to express their deepest feelings.

Sanaya: If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

The random hate people have for each other.

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Naomi: What does empowerment mean to you? 

To help everyone, starting with yourself, to be the best versions of themselves they were created to be.

Miriam: How have you helped someone lately? 

I have volunteered my time into welcoming new students into BELA high school & making them feel comfortable. 

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This summer we want you to be smart with your coins. You have fun social events and hang out sessions happening, and so we tend to spend more money this time of the year. In order to keep from depleting your savings account, you may want to consider a side hustle. A side hustle is a job that earns you a little extra cash and can be done even when you get a regular job or go back to school. Below are some ways you can start earning!

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Selling your Things|There are apps on the market like LetGo, Poshmark, and Etsy, that allow you to sell homemade items or things that you don’t want anymore. You set your own price and can learn great negotiating skills. This is also a great way to get your room clean too!

 Waitressing| Waiting tables is a perfect way to gain customer service experience in order to build your resume…and character. You are also able to bring home cash every night because of tips so your actual paycheck is a bonus! Waitressing is an easy job that a lot of younger people do throughout their college career.

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Housesitting|This is one of the easiest side hustles ever! If you know someone heading out for an extended vacay, ask if you can house sit for a small fee. It’s a major responsibility, but doesn’t require a lot of brainpower. It will also deem you trustworthy to other people.

Tutoring| Tutoring is another good one for the resume! You get a chance to work with kids on subjects you excel at all while making a little money. It only requires a few hours during the week and there is always a high demand for kids that need tutoring.

~Tia Banks

Scroll through the Style Diary of teen blogger, Kira Robinson!

Style is showing who you are with out having to speak! Name your top 3 trends you’re feeling this season?

My top three trends would have to be basically anything cheetah print, platform shoes or sandals, and shell necklaces.

If you had 30 seconds to grab your 3 favorite style pieces, what would they be?

ONLY 30 seconds!! It’s takes me like 30 minutes to pick out my outfits haha. I’d probably grab some oversized jacket, my doc martens, anddd a simple necklace.

 

Style inspo is everything! Who’s your ultimate fashion icon + why?

That’s a good question. I don’t really have a style icon, I mostly just kind of wear however I’m feeling that day (if that makes any sense). I also tend to mindlessly scroll on Instagram and then if I see someone wearing something I like, I save it so this folder I have called “fashion.” yes I know, how original. By now I’ve accumulated tonsss of pictures in this folder, so I guess you could say I get my style inspo from Instagram! 

 

Getting ready in the morning can be fun but stressful if you’re in a time crunch, what’s your go-to look if you’re in a rush?

 My go-to look would probably be high waisted jean shorts, nike air force 1s, my gold cross necklace, my gold star choker, small gold hoops, and some cute graphic tee.

 

What’s your number 1 rule when it comes to style?

My #1 rule when it comes to style is to be yourself. It’s not required of you to follow the crowd. I wear whatever I like and sometimes it may not be considered “trendy.” But I dress for myself and if I like it, then that’s all that matters. If you don’t want to follow trends then don’t. Remember no item of clothing is ever wrong if you like it 🙂

 

Follow more of Kira’s dope style here!

Instagram

 

“Yes! He liked my bomb selfie I just posted on the gram! I wonder if this means that he likes me too?! Well, he didn’t leave a comment so maybe we’re just friends?”

If you find yourself having conversations similar to this, keep reading to find out how he really feels about you. His actions speak louder than his words and we don’t want you to miss the message he’s trying to send you!

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Calls vs Texts|Texts are simple, easy, and convenient. They can also be sent to anyone and interpreted differently. If he takes the time to call you, answer! He likes hearing your voice and is definitely into you!

Laid back vs. Dapper|If he wears his nicest sneakers and has a fresh line up whenever he sees you, it’s a very good sign. He’s trying to impress you. Otherwise, if he comes around you looking a little too “comfortable”, you could be falling into the friend zone.

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Focus| Where is his focus when you both are together? Is he looking at his phone and doing other things while listening to you talk or is he fully engaged in your conversation without distractions? This is a major sign. We are glued to our phones constantly and if he takes the time to put the phone on mute for you, he’s a keeper!

Girl Talk vs You Talk| What are they conversations of discussion? Does he talk about other girls that he likes or is talking to? That’s a major sign of being in the friend zone. However, if his conversations are focused around you and what he likes about you, you’re golden!

~Tia Banks

Scroll through the Beauty Diary of teen blogger, Bernice!

What’s your name + the city you live in?

Bernice Ndegwa and I live in South Plainfield.

Beauty is all about being comfortable in your own skin + having fun! What are 2 beauty trends you’re loving this year?

Two beauty trends that I absolutely love this year is less is more and pops of color on a bare face. For the majority of my life, I didn’t like the color of my skin and when I hit puberty I hated my dark spots even more. This is something I still struggle with to this day  but one thing that has helped tremendously is the wave of positivity that has come with showing your natural beauty. I still love makeup just as much as the next girl but being able to step into the world and be comfortable in my bare skin is the most important thing to me. Another trend that I have fallen in love with is the pops of color in makeup. Whether, a bare face with some pigmented shadow or a bold lip, this trend has really stolen my heart. To me the basis of makeup is to express yourself and this trend does exactly that. I love seeing the thought process of someone’s look just by observing the color and how they used it in their look.

If you had only 15 seconds to grab 3 beauty products, what would they be?

I would grab tea tree oil, vaseline, and some falsies.

Beauty inspo is everything! Who’s your ultimate beauty icon + why?

My fashion icons are Kiitan A., Zendaya, and Jackie Aina. These three women carry such elegance and confidence in their day to day lives and are so unapologetically black that it’s hard not to be completely mesmerized by their presence.

Getting ready for class can be fun but stressful if you’re in a time crunch, what’s one beauty must-have that lives in your bag?

My absolute must have is chapstick. Whether that be carmex, vaseline, or any other brand I’m trying at that particular time. I always make sure to have a lip moisturizing product on me because having chapped lips is one of my biggest pet peeves

What’s your number 1 beauty rule?

My number one beauty rule is a saying that my mom always says to me when I’m feeling a bit self conscious. Look good, do good, be good, feel good. I live by these words and to me if I look good than everything else can’t be that bad.

Follow more of Bernice beauty inspo here!

Bernice Ndgewa

Instagram 

The thing that rounds out a perfect summer is a dope playlist. Good music is always a vibe for summer night drives with the crew, windows down and the warm air blowing on you or poolside kickbacks. Having a playlist –a good one– is a big deal. Now, some of us are visual people so we’ve put together a visual playlist of some songs you’ll have on repeat through the end of the season.

DJ Khaled ~ Higher

Beyonce ~ Before I Let Go

Khalid~Talk

Lil Nas X ~ Old Town Road

J.Cole ~ Middle Child

Friendships, like most relationships, are very dynamic and go through lots of highs and lows. One issue that friendships often face is jealousy. Although it’s difficult feeling to admit, if it isn’t handled appropriately, it can put your friendship at risk. Here are some signs you’re experiencing jealousy and how to handle it.

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Good News, Bad News| When your friend shares good news with you, they are expecting nothing less than positive vibes. As a friend, your job is to give them the positive affirmation and support they are looking for because they would do the same for you. If their good news doesn’t genuinely spark joy, it could be due to jealousy. Instead, figure out why. Is it because they achieved something before you did? Remember: Their accomplishments don’t diminish how far you’ve come and the hard work you put in.

Space| Sometimes when you’re jealous, you limit your time with this friend. You don’t want to stand by their side as they are achieving goals because it makes you feel less than. Remember: Your friend wants to share their successes with you, which is why they call you a friend. When you reach your personal goals, you’re going to want them by your side to share in your own glory.

Clingy| Jealousy also sparks when your bestie makes a new friend. You find yourself wanting to be by their side more often, calling and texting like a maniac. It’s quite the opposite of pushing yourself away. You are subliminally sending the message that you refuse to be replaced. Remember: You have a place in your friend’s life. They never let you go, they are just embracing new faces. You might like this person too.

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~Tia Banks, Content Editor