What is the best thing that I love about my work?

What I love most about my work is the ability to transform lives through music — not only on stage, but also through teaching. Guiding children and young people as they discover their talent, believe in themselves, and achieve dreams they once thought were impossible is one of the greatest rewards of my career. Performing internationally allows me to carry emotion and beauty to audiences from many cultures, building deep connections through art. Music unites us and gives me the privilege of creating meaningful impact. Above all, I love being whole and truthful in everything I do.

What is my idea of happiness?

Happiness, for me, is living connected with God and aligned with the purpose for which I was created. It is building a life of values, principles and love alongside my husband, Pedro Bray, and the family we are creating together. Happiness is being able to create freely, perform with authenticity, and feel that my music inspires and transforms lives. It is living with integrity, gratitude and devotion.

What is my greatest fear?

My greatest fear is losing the ability to express myself through music, which has always been my voice and identity. I also fear not fulfilling my entire potential or leaving part of my mission incomplete. Music is my life — and the possibility of not being able to share it is a thought that follows me.

What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?

What I most work on within myself is not perfectionism, but the constant need to believe that I am worthy of everything good I have achieved. I am learning to recognise my value with serenity and gratitude, without questioning myself so much.

Which living persons in my profession do I most admire?

I deeply admire Andrea Bocelli, not only for overcoming the limitation of his vision, but also for the spiritual and artistic inspiration he represents. His voice has been part of my dream and accompanied many stages of my life. I also admire my first teacher, Rafael Cutiño — a living example of what it means to teach with dedication, excellence, humanity and true love for music.

What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?

What I dislike most is the lack of punctuality and professionalism that I sometimes encounter among colleagues. Music requires discipline, respect and commitment, and I believe we should all honour the responsibility that the stage demands.

When and where was I the happiest, in my work?

One of the happiest moments of my life was when my husband, Pedro Bray, and I created our duo. It was far more than an artistic project — it was the union of our lives and our mission in every area. Since then, every performance together has been a celebration of love, music and purpose.

If I could, what would I change about myself?

I would like to learn to carry less weight on my shoulders and trust the natural flow of things. I often take on too much responsibility, but I recognise that this trait has also helped build everything I am today.

What is my greatest achievement in work?

My greatest achievement is building a solid and respected international career — across Portugal, Luxembourg, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, India and now the United Arab Emirates. Earning recognition in so many different cultures is something I cherish deeply. Contributing to orchestras, social projects, films, international events and performing in iconic venues is part of the legacy I am leaving in the world.

Where would I most like to live?

I would love to live in the United States of America. The country has a vast musical tradition, countless artistic opportunities and a culture that values innovation and merit. I believe the USA would elevate my professional experience even further and open doors to new international collaborations and projects.

What is my most treasured possession?

My viola — an extension of my soul, the keeper of my memories, and the voice through which I tell my story.

What is my most marked characteristic?

My dedication. I give myself entirely to everything I do — with discipline, emotion and truth. Those who work with me feel this.

What is my most inspirational location, in my city?

In Dubai, the great cultural venues — such as Dubai Opera and the Emirates Palace — are constant sources of inspiration. They remind me every day of the universality of music.

What is my favourite place to eat and drink, in my city?

I enjoy quiet and elegant places where I can unwind after a performance and reflect on my artistic journey. Dubai offers many wonderful places for that.

What books influenced my life and how?

The book that has most influenced my life is the Bible. It is my spiritual foundation, my strength and my guide for every area of my life — personal, artistic and professional.

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?

“Holy Forever” by Michael W. Smith. It connects me instantly to God and represents the faith that guides my life.

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

I do not have a hero in fiction. My inspiration does not come from imaginary characters, but from faith, purpose, and real experiences.

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

My greatest hero is God — the author of my life, my refuge and the reason for my purpose.

Which movie would I recommend to see once in a lifetime?

The Passion of the Christ. It is a deeply transformative film that reminds us of the power of love, faith and sacrifice.

What role do stories play in my life and work?

Stories guide me and give meaning to my art. Every performance is an emotional and spiritual narrative, and each person who listens receives their own version of that story.

What do the words “You are the storyteller of your own life” mean to me?

They mean that I am responsible for writing my journey with courage, faith and truth. My path has crossed continents, challenges and achievements — and every step was guided by purpose.

Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?

My husband, Pedro Bray. He is my partner on stage, in life and in purpose. We walk together in every area with unconditional support.

Which people or companies would I like to work with?

I would love to collaborate with institutions and artistic projects that value excellence, cultural diversity, faith, purpose and social impact. Partnerships that uplift and transform.

What project am I looking forward to work on?

Our artistic project Pedro & Susana, created together with my husband Pedro Bray. It is more than music — it is our identity as an artistic family.

Where can you see me or my work?

You can see my work across the United Arab Emirates, in Europe and in other international locations — in live performances, orchestral concerts, international events, and also on my YouTube channel, where I share my journey and musical projects.

What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?

They mean that music is an eternal calling. Passion keeps us alive, inspired and connected to the purpose we were created for.

Which creative professionals should Peter invite to tell their story?

I would recommend professionals who elevate art with excellence and truth. I would be happy to share specific names privately.

How can you contact me?

Through my professional email: susanabrayofficial@gmail.com. On my social media and digital platforms, I share my work, performances and artistic projects.