Music at the Cathedral
A Heritage of Excellence in the Heart of Houston
Christ Church Cathedral has long been a “cultural wellspring” for the city of Houston. Our music program is rooted in the Anglican choral tradition, yet it embraces everything from ancient plainsong to modern jazz.
Our Musical Leadership
Canon Robert L. Simpson
Canon for Music & Organist-Choirmaster A Grammy-winning conductor and honors graduate of Brown University, Bob Simpson has led our music ministry since 1993. He is the Founder of the Houston Chamber Choir and served until recently on the faculty of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. A recipient of the S. Lewis Elmer Prize from the American Guild of Organists, Bob has dedicated 32 years to making the Cathedral a beacon of sacred music.
Valentina Huang
Cathedral Organist An internationally acclaimed concert organist and doctoral student at the Shepherd School of Music, Valentina brings a “warm and enthusiastic personality” to our benches. A winner of the prestigious Fort Wayne and Arthur Poister competitions, Valentina joined us in 2024 to continue our legacy of world-class organ performance.
Join the Song: Our Choirs
We offer opportunities for singers of all ages and skill levels.
The Cathedral Choir
11 a.m. Service
Our flagship ensemble of volunteers and professional staff singers. This choir performs major sacred works with orchestra and regularly serves as choir-in-residence at great English cathedrals like Salisbury and Canterbury.
- Rehearsal: Thursdays, 7:00–9:30 p.m.
- Auditions: Contact Robert Simpson at 713-590-3311 to schedule.
The Parish Choir
9 a.m. Service
A volunteer ensemble supplemented by staff singers who share a love for excellence in sung worship. No previous musical experience is required.
- Rehearsal: Thursdays, 6:00–7:00 p.m.
The Treble Choir of Houston
Grades 6–12
The acclaimed resident children’s choir of the Cathedral, providing outstanding training in a nurturing environment. Founded in 2006 by Marianna Parnas-Simpson, they are a finalist in the American Prize National Competition and have performed at Carnegie Hall.
Summer Choir: Join Us! This summer, we invite you to sing with us—no long-term commitment or experience required!
- For 9 a.m. Service: Meet in Sanders Hall (Latham Bldg, 2nd Floor) at 8:20 a.m.
- For 11 a.m. Service: Meet in Sanders Hall at 10:15 a.m.
Experience Choral Evensong
Step away from the bustle of downtown for a 500-year-old tradition of beauty and reflection. Evensong is a service of sung evening prayer where the choir offers magnificent anthems and canticles to lift your soul.
Upcoming Music Events
The Cathedral Organs
At the heart of our music ministry are the Cathedral’s remarkable pipe organs, whose rich and powerful sound has shaped worship for generations. Built with exceptional craftsmanship, these instruments lead congregational song, accompany choirs, and bring depth and beauty to every service. 
Now Accepting Applications: Director of Music
Christ Church Cathedral seeks an exceptional musician and pastoral leader to serve as our next Director of Music. This full-time senior leadership position offers the opportunity to lead one of the preeminent sacred music programs in the Southwest.
- The Vision: Lead a program rooted in the Anglican tradition while embracing Houston’s cultural diversity.
- The Instrument: Primary access to our 1938 Aeolian-Skinner (90 ranks, 5,045 pipes).
- Requirements: Graduate degree in music/conducting, excellence in choral leadership, and keyboard proficiency.