Previous Projects

Music Director, Business Manager, and Orchestra Librarian of the Upper Peninsula Youth Orchestra

Sonja was first introduced to the Upper Peninsula Youth Orchestra as a student in high school and participated for several years in the two day summer program. While attending Northern Michigan University as a graduate student, Sonja was asked to take over direction of the group with her colleagues Alexis Mahler and Matt Mitchell, while under the guidance of Dr. Barbara Rhyneer, the previous director/conductor. The group worked together to transform the youth orchestra into a year-long program. The orchestra met for weekly rehearsals on the campus of Northern Michigan University, performed traditional classical repertoire and pop/rock tunes, and accompanied local soloists. The summer program also continued until 2017.

Co-founder, Arranger, Violinist of the Eclettico Chamber Orchestra

Sonja was a founding member of Eclettico (2010-2015), a chamber orchestra group that specialized in performing classical chamber repertoire and modern pop/rock tunes. Eclettico began as a string quartet and then formed into a 12 person chamber orchestra, complete with drums and bass guitar. The group performed for various local events including art and music festivals, bar gigs, weddings, and their own scheduled concerts. Sonja transcribed and arranged many pieces for the group, including tunes by The Beatles, Michael Jackson, Justice, and Nirvana, and led the second violin section.

Violin Sectionals & Chamber Ensemble Coach

While living in Michigan, Sonja was frequently invited to teach violin sectionals at Marquette Senior High School and Bothwell Middle School (2010-2014). Sonja also taught sectionals for the Upper Peninsula Youth Orchestra (2010-2014), coached various chamber ensembles during the Upper Peninsula Chamber Festival (2012-2017), and taught violin sectionals and private lessons at the Superior String Alliance summer camp (2010-2015).

Beginning Strings Club Program Instructor

Sonja co-taught two after school programs for beginning string students with her colleague Alexis Mahler (2011-2012). The strings club programs helped students develop basic string technique, problem solving skills, and communication skills. The programs were held at Sandy Knoll Elementary and Graveraet Elementary in Marquette, MI.