Journey Around the World this Christmas

Born and raised in Germany, mezzo soprano Sonja Bruzauskas was trained on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Besides her expansive stage career in musical theater, opera and operetta, Sonja is a well-established concert singer and recitalist, focusing on oratorio, art song and contemporary music. Sonja has performed and lectured at institutions such as Vanderbilt, LSU, Rice University, Cal Arts, the University of Houston, Grinnell College, the Philosophical Society at Rice University as well as numerous health institutions. Sonja serves as director for the Theatre Forum at Round Top and she teaches Interdisciplinary Collaborations for CSSSA at at CalArts. Sonja is the founder and director of Partnerschools, a project that connects students through the Arts to empower diversity and strengthen communities. Board positions: Past President, Ars Lyrica, Houston; Past President, Houston Philosophical Society at Rice University; past Director, Houston Chamber Choir; President, Partnerschools. 

Annie Voorhees, a 15 year-old sophomore at St. John’s School, is thrilled to make her Conroe Symphony debut as a guest vocalist. Previous roles include Louisa Von Trapp in the Houston Grand Opera production of The Sound of Music, Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka, and Matilda in Matilda. Annie studies aerial acrobatics at The Artz and voice with Lauren Pastorek. Under the direction of Brendan Emig at SJS, Annie is a member of Les Chanteuses and the TPSMEA Regional Honor Choir. 

Roberto Gaitan, born in El Salvador and raised in the Houston area, is a talented tuba player and alumnus of Dekaney High School, where he earned a place in the TMEA All-State program through a rigorous audition process. Currently studying at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), he has been awarded multiple scholarships recognizing his achievements in both performance and academics, and has held the Principal Tuba position in various ensembles. Roberto has also performed with community groups such as the Woodlands Symphony and Spring ISD Alumni Band. Notably, he won the silver medal in the Winds, Brass, Percussion, Harp & Guitar Division at the Young Texas Artist Music Competition. Roberto continues to build his career as a musician, dedicated to excellence and inspiring those around him through his passion for music.