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.