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Invoke quartet performs outreach show at Sussex Academy

Invoke, a quartet that plays a mix of classical, folk, bluegrass and Americana, entertains students at Sussex Academy Jan. 5. Shown are (l-r) Nick Montopoli, Zachariah Matteson, Geoff Manyin and Karl Mitze. DAN COOK PHOTOS
Dan Cook
January 17, 2026

Coastal Concerts presented the Invoke quartet for a Jan. 5 performance at Sussex Academy, where the foursome entertained students with a special concert in the school cafetorium. 

“We were glad to host Invoke at our school,” said Rachael Johnston, dean of secondary education. “Students enjoyed their unique blend of musical styles, and their ability to connect with the audience made the experience both engaging and memorable.”

The Invoke quartet includes Nick Montopoli on violin and banjo, Zachariah Matteson on violin, Karl Mitze on viola and mandolin, and Geoff Manyin on cello. 

“Giving students chances to experience the arts matters at Sussex Academy,” said Head of School Kyle Bentley. “It sparks creativity, builds confidence and helps our students see the world in new ways. We would like to thank Invoke for inspiring our students with their knowledge, energy and amazing performance.”

Coastal Concerts is a nonprofit organization that brings world-class, internationally acclaimed chamber musicians and ensembles to the local community. Executive Director Carol Dennis said seeing the students’ reactions at this concert, watching their faces and hearing their enthusiastic applause, reminded her why these programs are so important. “It is so rewarding to know that we are offering young people a rare and valuable opportunity to experience world-class artistry firsthand, an opportunity that many might not otherwise be able to experience,” she said.

For details, go to coastalconcerts.org.

Sussex Academy seventh-grader Anna Liang plays along with the Invoke quartet during the Q&A session.
Invoke’s Karl Mitze speaks with students during the concert.
Sussex Academy Dean of Secondary Education Rachael Johnston introduces the group Invoke.
Mike Marotta’s music class listens to the quartet during the pre-concert Q&A session.
Invoke’s Geoff Manyin, left, and Karl Mitze play a solo during the pre-concert Q&A session.
Enjoying the main concert are (l-r) Nohely Ramirez-Merida, Wendy Lopez-Ramirez, Ariana Kuhns and Melany Figueroa-Morales.
Invoke performs for Mike Marotta’s music class before the Q&A session.
Invoke’s Nick Montopoli answers questions during the class Q&A.
Invoke’s Zachariah Matteson answers a student’s question during the Q&A session.
Invoke celloist Geoff Manyin answers questions during the Q&A session.
Invoke members change instruments during their performance. Shown are (l-r) Nick Montopoli on banjo, Zachariah Matteson on violin, Geoff Manyin on cello and Karl Mitze on mandolin.

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Dan has worked for the Cape Gazette for more than 30 years as a photographer and reporter, covering high school sports and happenings around eastern Sussex County. He won a photography award from the National Newspaper Association, and numerous awards from the Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association. A Delaware native, Dan graduated from Cape in 1972 and returned as a teacher and coach in the 1980s. He retired from the classroom in 2016. He was inducted into Cape High’s Legends Stadium in 2016. In his spare time, Dan enjoys spending time with his wife, two sons, grandchildren and dogs. 

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