As Houston’s arts scene continues to thrive, one of its most cherished institutions is preparing to close a historic chapter. The Houston Chamber Choir will present Gather ‘Round on Saturday, May 31, a poignant and powerful season finale that also marks the final regular concert under the baton of its visionary founder and Artistic Director, Robert Simpson. Held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, this much-anticipated performance is the culmination of a remarkable 30-year journey that transformed the Choir from a passionate dream into a Grammy® Award-winning vocal powerhouse.

From Humble Beginnings to National Prestige

Founded in 1995 by Robert Simpson and his wife, Marianna Parnas-Simpson, the Houston Chamber Choir began as a modest ensemble of just a few hand-picked voices. Their shared dream was clear: to create a fully professional choral group in Houston that would perform at the highest artistic level while nurturing local talent and inspiring diverse audiences.

Three decades later, that dream has not only come true—it has soared. The Choir’s 2020 Grammy® Award for “Best Choral Performance” for Duruflé: Complete Choral Works (Signum Records) stands as a testament to the ensemble’s unmatched excellence and Simpson’s unwavering commitment to the choral arts.

A Season to Remember: From Startup to Standout

The 2024–2025 season, aptly titled From Startup to Standout, has been a musical tribute to the Choir’s transformative growth under Simpson’s leadership. The final concert, Gather ‘Round, will feature a curated selection of the Choir’s most beloved works from past performances—a greatest hits celebration that reflects both the intimacy and grandeur of Simpson’s artistic vision.

“Access to world-class choral music should be a part of every city’s cultural fabric,” Simpson shared. “It has been the joy of my life to help make that vision a reality here in Houston. As I step away, I do so with gratitude and confidence in the Choir’s continued brilliance under the leadership of Dr. Betsy Weber.”

 Early Houston Chamber Choir/ Photography  Josh Langham 

Honoring a Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

Robert Simpson’s influence reaches beyond the concert hall. Under his direction, the Choir has commissioned and premiered new works from acclaimed composers such as Bob Chilcott, Pierre Jalbert, and Daniel Knaggs. He led the regional premiere of Sarah Kirkland Snider’s Mass for the Endangered, showcasing the ensemble’s commitment to contemporary music and environmental themes. Awards from Chorus America and international recognition have followed, cementing the Choir’s reputation as one of the finest choral groups in the nation.

Richard Kellogg, Board President of the Houston Chamber Choir, praised Simpson’s enduring legacy: “What Robert built is more than an ensemble. It’s a cultural treasure. His dedication, artistry, and vision have left an indelible mark on Houston’s arts landscape.”

A New Era Begins

Following this season finale and a farewell tour in Scandinavia this summer, Simpson will continue his contributions to sacred music as Canon for Music at Christ Church Cathedral and as an Adjunct Lecturer in Church Music at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music.

Incoming Artistic Director Dr. Betsy Weber is poised to continue this legacy, bringing her own distinguished experience and energy to the podium.

Don’t Miss This Historic Farewell

Gather ‘Round is more than a concert—it’s a citywide celebration of one man’s extraordinary contribution to Houston’s artistic soul. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly as longtime fans, supporters, and new listeners gather to honor a life dedicated to harmony—in every sense of the word.

🎶 EVENT DETAILS 🎶

WHAT: Gather ‘Round – Houston Chamber Choir’s 2024–2025 Season Finale
WHEN: Saturday, May 31, 2025 | 7:00 PM
WHERE: St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77027
TICKETS: $10–$45 | Student, military, and senior discounts available
BUY TICKETS: houstonchamberchoir.org/2024-2025-season/gather-round
PARKING: Free onsite parking available