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.