A California native Jonathan Souza received his undergraduate training at Humboldt State University in Arcata California completing his Bachelor of the Arts Degree in Music Education and Vocal Performance.  His graduate studies were completed at San Jose State University School of Music and Dance where he received a Master of the Arts Degree in Music, Choral Conducting under the mentorship of internationally renowned choral conductor Dr. Charlene Archibeque.

 

Mr. Souza performs professionally across California and has been seen with The American Cabaret Theatre, Mark Morris Dance Company (singer), Humboldt Light Opera Company, Fortuna Concert Series, and was an assistant conductor of one of America’s most critically acclaimed chamber choirs, the San Jose State University Choraliers.

 

Currently, Jonathan is the Director of Music Activities at Fortuna Union High School where he directs both instrumental and choral ensembles.  Additionally, he is the founding Artistic Director and Conductor of Humboldt County's newest choral organization, The Six Rivers Choral Artists (formerly Arcata Choral Artists). In addition, Jonathan’s biographical sketch was included in the 2007 edition of Marquis’ Who’s Who in America.

 

He is an active instructor and clinician of choral music and  judged the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella Western United States Finals at Stanford University and has judged Humboldt State University’s Concerto Aria Competition.  Jonathan was the guest conductor of the both 2007 Humboldt-Del Norte All-Counties Senior Honor Band and the 2009 Senior Choir.  He was recently recognized as the California Music Educators Association’s 2007-2008 Outstanding Music Educator of the Year for Humboldt and Del Norte Counties.  Mr. Souza was also recognized by the Fortuna Union High School District and received the Principal’s Award in 2008 for his outstanding service to his students at Fortuna High School.

 

During his studies, Jonathan has worked with choral conductors Dr. Charlene Archibeque, Dr. Harley Muilenburg, Elena Sharkova, Daniel Hughes among others.  His vocal training has included private instruction from Joseph Frank, Dr. James Stanard, and Dr. David Rohrbaugh. While at HSU he also played trumpet in all of the major instrumental ensembles and received  trumpet instruction from Dr. Gil Cline.