Principal musicians Kimberly and David Scott celebrate over two decades of music, marriage, and the Symphony that brought them together.

Since 1997, the Conroe Symphony Orchestra has been a staple of the community. For Kimberly and David Scott, however, it brought something even more lasting: each other. Theirs is a romance defined not by a single song but by a shared soundtrack played measure by measure for twenty-six years.

As two of the Charter Members of the Conroe Symphony Orchestra (CSO), Kimberly (Principal Clarinet) and David (Principal String Bass) have been pillars of the rhythm and woodwind sections since the symphony’s inception in 1997. But amidst the rehearsals and performances, they were also quietly composing a love story.

From Friendship to Family

Their story began with a flyer and a newspaper ad. David, a Navy veteran who served in Desert Storm, spotted a flyer at Montgomery College (now Lone Star College in Montgomery) about a new orchestra forming. Kimberly saw an ad in the Conroe Courier and was looking to return to music after a two-year break.

They both joined the CSO in its debut year. “We both noticed each other at orchestra practice across the room,” they recall, “but we never talked.” It wasn’t until the fall of that year—cramped into the theater pit for a production of Peter Pan—that the silence finally broke.

“We both played for the theater group down in the pit,” they recall. That proximity changed everything. Kimberly made the first move, inviting David to join a singles Bible study group.

However, like many great romances, the tempo was a little different for each of them early on. When asked about their first impressions, the couple laughs: David thought they were just friends for a long time, while Kimberly was pretty sure they were already dating.

Harmony at Home & On Stage

Eventually, they got on the same beat. They married, and the symphony became a central thread in their family life. In the orchestra’s early years, rehearsals often led to shared meals, and concerts ended with gatherings of friends who would watch one another’s lives grow — marriages, children, and milestones unfolding alongside the music.

“Back in the early years, there was a group of us that would go eat after practice,” they said. “We have seen each other grow as a family—babies and all.”

That sense of belonging remains one of the Scotts’ most treasured gifts from the Conroe Symphony: friendship, inclusion, and the chance to share their instruments with the community. As a couple, the orchestra gave them something just as meaningful, a hobby and a passion they could experience together.

Today, their communication style shifts depending on the setting. At home, they talk through life’s logistics. On stage, amidst the swell of the music, a simple smile or a wink is all they need to stay connected.

That mutual support is the heartbeat of their relationship. Kimberly notes that David is always there to validate her hard work with a simple “good job” after a tough solo—a gesture that means the world after a long day. This teamwork extends well beyond the stage, too. Whether they are navigating life at home or volunteering side-by-side as referees for local swim teams, they operate as a unified team.

However, it is back in the concert hall where their romantic history is most vivid. The Phantom of the Opera remains a favorite score, evoking memories of their honeymoon in New York City, where they saw it performed on Broadway. It is more than just repertoire to them. It is a musical time capsule. Whenever the familiar notes appear on a CSO program, they are transported back to the beginning of their journey, making the performance feel like a personal serenade amidst the full orchestra

Love at Every Measure

Today, what Kimberly loves most is their shared support through the ongoing adventure of music and life, while for David, each performance stirs memories of the years they’ve spent side by side. Even outside the music, certain traditions remain constant—like their annual trip to Waffle House after the Christmas Eve service—simple rituals that have become part of their shared story.

And when Kimberly looks across the stage during a concert now, she feels pride, love, and gratitude for the life they’ve built together. “If CSO didn’t exist,” they admit, “our lives would be different because we probably would never have met.”

Thankfully, it did—and from a rehearsal room in 1997, a love story grew and is still playing in perfect harmony today. Fortunately for Conroe, the Scotts are still there, playing their part in a duet that has lasted decades.

The Conroe Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to welcome a new face to our clarinet section — one whose musical journey spans the globe, the military, and decades of passionate performance: clarinetist Cedric Mayfield.

Mayfield is no stranger to the world stage. After serving 15 years with The U.S. Coast Guard Band and 5 years with U.S. Air Force Band, he has performed for audiences from the Middle East to the islands of Oceania, and collaborated with artists across genres and cultures. But now, he is right here in Conroe, sharing his gift with our community.

“I served proudly, I was searching for playing opportunities in the area upon returning home to Houston for retirement from the Coast Guard Band, and came across the CSO,” he said. “It seemed like a nice place to call ‘home’, musically speaking. There’s no sound, or experience, quite like playing in an orchestra. Making this wonderful music come alive is a gift for both musician and listener.”

Mayfield is a gifted, versatile woodwind player who plays the clarinet as his primary instrument—one he’s played for nearly 40 years.

“I began playing Clarinet at 8 years old at an arts magnet school in HISD,” Mayfield recalls. “I believe the clarinet chose me, as opposed to the other way around. I began playing saxophone during undergraduate studies at SMU in Dallas, and began flute while touring with musicals out of NYC.”

When asked about his favorite composers, he finds it hard to narrow down, but names Tchaikovsky, Debussy, and Villa Lobos as a few of his favorites. And like many of us, he has a soft spot for John Williams’s music and is looking forward to that concert this season.

“His music connects with the audience in such a special way. It’s easy to listen to, but challenging to play well. I’ve had some very special moments performing his works.”

Still, the excitement extends to the season opener and beyond — each program offers new opportunities to connect with audiences through unforgettable performances.

When Mayfield isn’t playing on stage, he says he is living the life with his two dogs right now, enjoying being retired from the military, spending time at home with friends and family, making music and teaching. He loves the growth around Conroe.

“It is becoming quite the hidden gem for the greater Houston area, and the Conroe Symphony seems to be contributing to the city’s artistic growth,” he said.

Whether performing for a village in Oceania, a military base in the desert, or a concert hall in Texas, Mayfield’s passion for music shines through every note. And now, as part of the Conroe Symphony Orchestra, he is ready to share that passion with our community.

“I’ve dedicated my life to music, and I’ll continue to use and pursue this gift as long as The Lord allows me.”

Come see Cedric Mayfield play with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra this season. It will be a magical and epic 25-26 season.

The Conroe Symphony Orchestra turns its spotlight on one of its newest members: cellist Zayla White.

In her inaugural season with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra, Zayla White has already made a quiet but powerful impression through her artistry, introspective depth, and a deep love for the unspoken connections formed through music.

Zayla’s journey with the cello began at age nine, driven by a simple, childlike impulse — “I thought it was cool,” she says. That early interest has since grown into a profound passion.

“Two summers ago, I had the opportunity to attend Texas Tech’s Band and Orchestra Camp, and performed in a full orchestra for the first time,” Zayla shares. “The finale to our performance on the last day of camp was Sibelius’ Finlandia. And though this could be due to a fever-ridden mind from my first and only bout with COVID, I felt like I was sinking into the earth. I could feel the vibrations of my cello in sync with everyone on stage, and my blood seemed to bubble in my ears along with the basses’ rumbling strings. In that instant I knew I wouldn’t give up playing cello until I physically couldn’t.”

Music has always been central to Zayla’s family: both of her parents were in Waltrip High School’s marching band, and her father now serves as the full orchestra director at HISD’s Northside High School. While they originally hoped she’d take up a brass instrument, Zayla jokes that they probably are relieved they didn’t have to pay endless band fees. Zayla carved her own path, though — and they’ve supported her every step of the way.

Her path has been shaped by a strong musical foundation and a rich educational journey. Zayla played with the Conroe Youth Symphony Orchestra and is a product of the College Park High School orchestra. Her list of mentors is extensive — from her first formal cello instructor Daniel Saenz to current influences like Daniela Arevalo and camp instructors such as Sarah Stone and Mitch Lyon. She credits orchestra directors Emmanuel Coraza and Mary-Kate Sturgil with having the most significant impact on her growth.

When asked what she loves most about playing in the orchestra, Zayla doesn’t hesitate: “The part I love most about playing in an orchestra is the intimate communication that I hold with others through playing music for and with them.”

The love for playing in a full orchestra is evident as she shared about performing the finale of Sibelius’ Second Symphony. “I hadn’t realized how much of the music I’d memorized,” she recalls. “The intensity was overwhelming. I swore I was going to begin weeping at any moment.”

Zayla brings this same emotional honesty to every aspect of her life. An avid reader and writer, she’s drawn to speculative science fiction and poetry — citing authors like Tamsyn Muir, Neal Shusterman, and David Foster Wallace as favorites. She shares her life with one cat named Shrew, and a deep love for bread. If she weren’t playing cello, she’d be curious to try viola or oboe — “I think it would be fun.”

Zayla’s favorite spot in Conroe? “Downtown. The architecture reminds me of a claymation film set — it’s idyllic in a strange, wonderful way.”

With a sense of humor, emotional depth, and a talent that resonates far beyond her years, Zayla White is a vivid and promising presence within the Conroe Symphony Orchestra. We can’t wait to see where her journey — and her music — takes her next.

Come see Zayla White play at the Conroe Symphony’s Celebrate America concert. The Independence day concert was a favorite of hers last year and we expect it to be yours this year.

The Conroe Symphony Orchestra is honored to present Tingting Yao as their Symphony Spotlight.

In just two seasons with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra, Tingting Yao has already made a remarkable impression. Starting piano lessons at the age of three and a half, she fulfilled her mother’s dream of learning the instrument. Her early dedication and talent led to first-place wins at national piano competitions in China as a child and admission to the prestigious Shanghai Conservatory of Music’s elementary school through a national audition.

Throughout her illustrious career, she has amassed a series of impressive accomplishments: admitted into the elementary school of Shanghai Conservatory of Music from a national audition at the age of nine,  pianist/soloist to perform with the German orchestra for Tongji University’s 100th anniversary, obtained advanced degrees with distinction from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in England, selected by pianist Lang Lang from a national search to be one of the six piano teachers to teach in his first piano school (Lang Lang Music World) in Shenzhen, China, and teaching at the University of Memphis, where she played for an astonishing 34 degree recitals in just a month and a half.

Her love for music is matched by her playful spirit—she’s an avid Lego builder, with her most challenging creation being a grand piano with 3,662 pieces. Proudly calling herself a “Jedi pianist,” she draws inspiration from her love of Star Wars and her impressive recital record.

“I love Star Wars, love the Jedi master and the baby yoda,” she shared. “After I played 34 degree recitals in one month and a half in the spring of 2021, I was proud enough to call myself a Jedi pianist. I think I probably made a record of the number of recitals a collaborative pianist can accomplish in a short time. Prior to the recitals happening, I probably did 100 rehearsals with the students.”

When asked about her musical influences, she credits her mother’s unwavering dedication, sharing heartfelt memories of lessons and late-night practice sessions guided by her mother’s meticulous notes.

“My mom had planned for me to learn the piano before I was born,” she said. “For what I remember, every time I was to have a lesson in the piano teacher’s house, my mom would ride me on her bike to the bus stop, take the bus, then walk to the teacher’s house. My mom would take notes on a notebook on all things the teacher talked about. When we get home from the lesson, no matter how late it was or how tired I was, my mom would make me play the piano and correct the mistakes the teacher had pointed out while everything was fresh. It is my mom’s dedication, support, and love that paved the path for me.”

Besides playing for the German orchestra’s 100th anniversary, Tingting’s most memorable moment was during her time teaching at Lang Lang Music World. “I had the honor of playing the first Mvt of Rachmaninov Piano Concerto with Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra in Shenzhen Concert Hall which has 1680 seats. Lang Lang performed in the second half in the same concert.”

Her fondest memories with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra include the 2021 Christmas concert, where she performed music from A Charlie Brown Christmas, and being featured as a soloist in the 2024 Spring concert, performing Debussy’s Clair de Lune.

Come see Tingting Yao play  at the Conroe Symphony’s Great Expectations concert. She will perform a solo during Rhapsody in Blue with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra Feb. 7 at 2:30 pm. at First Methodist Conroe.

The Conroe Symphony Orchestra is honored to present Kevin High as their Symphony Spotlight.

Kevin High, a familiar face in the Conroe music scene, has always been drawn to the deep, resonant voice of the cello. His journey, however, began with a happy accident. “In middle school, I actually signed up for orchestra instead of band,” Kevin said.“I tried the violin for a week, but when I walked into the music shop, they took one look at me and said, ‘You look like a cellist.'” He hasn’t looked back since.

Kevin’s path to the CSO stage has been paved with dedication and a passion for musical collaboration. After completing his undergraduate and graduate degrees in cello performance, Kevin embarked on what he calls “adventures” – studying with renowned quartets like the Shanghai Quartet in New York and the Esterhazy Quartet in Missouri. These experiences instilled in him the value of teamwork and communication, skills he now brings to both his performances and his teaching.

“Working with both quartets was a similar experience,” Kevin reflects. “I thrive in a chamber group setting, and the opportunity to learn from these incredible musicians was invaluable. They taught me that music is about more than just individual skill; it’s about connecting with others and working together to create something beautiful.”

This collaborative spirit is something Kevin cherishes about the Conroe Symphony Orchestra. “Even though I’ve only been with the group for a year, I appreciate the camaraderie,” he shares. “Everyone supports each other and the arts, and that’s a really special thing to be a part of.”

Kevin’s commitment to fostering musical growth extends beyond the orchestra. He’s a dedicated teacher, sharing his love for the cello with students in The Woodlands and Conroe areas. “The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing a student’s face light up when something clicks,” he says. “It’s that ‘light bulb’ moment that I strive for in every lesson.” Some of his students even share the stage with him in the symphony, a testament to his impact on the local music community.

While music is his passion, Kevin also enjoys the simple pleasures of life in Conroe. “It’s nice to be out of the big city and closer to nature,” he says. He appreciates spending time with his close-knit family, who all live in the same Conroe neighborhood. And when he’s not making music or teaching, you might find him immersed in a video game. “They get a bad rap,” Kevin admits, “but I think they’re great for hand-eye coordination and staying social.”

Looking ahead, Kevin is excited to continue contributing to the vibrant Conroe arts scene. He’s grateful for the experiences that have shaped him, from his early days as an accidental cellist to his current role in the symphony. And with his dedication to music and community, it’s clear that Kevin High has found his place – and his harmony – in Conroe.

Come see Kevin play at the CSO’s upcoming concert, Christmas Around the World, on December 14 at 2:30 pm at First Methodist Conroe.

The Conroe Symphony Orchestra is honored to present Verna Verspieren as their Symphony Spotlight.

For Verna Verspieren, playing the violin is more than just a passion—it’s a lifelong journey that has taken her around the world, from her youth orchestra days in Southern California to performances with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra today. Now in her second season with the symphony, Verna brings not only her exceptional musical skills but also a deep appreciation for the joy of community music-making.

“I have been playing violin for almost 50 years,” she said. “One of the highlights of my decades of playing violin is the tour I took of Europe with the Orange County Youth Symphony Orchestra. I was in high school and it was my first trip to Europe. We played concerts in Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Austria, including a concert at the Mozarteum in Salzburg.  The tour opened my eyes to rest of the world beyond Southern California.  My brother and sister met me in Germany and we went to France and England as well. Forty years later, I am still very grateful to have had that opportunity, and I am still friends with my stand partner from the trip!”

Verna’s dedication to her craft doesn’t stop with the violin. Outside of the concert hall, she is a dedicated French teacher at Frassati Catholic High School and an active volunteer at St. Anthony Parish in The Woodlands. She often brings her musical talents to her church, playing for services and Masses, a tradition rooted in the support she received from her parents, who gifted her a fine violin during high school—a gesture she remains grateful for to this day.

Verna’s musical journey is filled with moments of gratitude—whether it’s to Mr. King, the elementary school teacher who introduced her to the violin, or to the audiences of Conroe who warmly embrace the symphony’s performances.

“Mr. King who taught me how to play violin at my elementary school in 5th grade” she said. “If he had not been willing to drive around to all of the elementary schools in his convertible sports car, I might never have learned.”

For Verna, playing the violin isn’t just about perfecting her craft; it’s about sharing beautiful moments with others, one note at a time. Verna finds great joy in playing with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra, particularly relishing the sense of camaraderie among the musicians and the conductor’s lively humor. A standout memory is performing at the orchestra’s 4th of July Patriotic Concert, where the energy of the community matched the enthusiasm of the orchestra—a true celebration of the joy of music.

“Playing the 4th of July Patriotic Concert was a blast!” Verna said.  “It was wonderful to be part of such a large community event.”

When she’s not performing or teaching, Verna enjoys a variety of hobbies, from reading and cooking to gardening and calligraphy. Her three dogs—each with their own quirky personalities, including a Britney Spaniel who howls along with her violin practice—add a touch of warmth to her life. She also treasures time spent with her six grown children and her granddaughter, who are spread across the world but remain close in heart.

Come see Verna play at the CSO’s upcoming concert, Christmas Around the World, on December 14 at 2:30 pm. at First Methodist Conroe.