HSO Mission Statement
The Houston Symphony Chorus is the official choral unit of the Houston
Symphony. It is a chorus of volunteer singer/musicians committed to
rehearsing and performing the choral orchestral repertory at the highest
level of choral artistry achieveable.
ARTISTIC STAFF
The Director is responsible for the musical preparation and performance of
the Houston Symphony Chorus for its involvement in the concert activities
of the Houston Symphony.
The Associate Director works with the director in all matters related to
the preparation and performance of the chorus, including conducting
rehearsals as assigned.
The Accompanist plays for chorus rehearsals and auditions.
The Assistant Accompanist plays for chorus rehearsals and auditions as
necessary.
SECTION LEADERS
Section Leaders assist the director in musical matters including note
and vocal problems within the section and ensuring that absentees receive
markings given in missed rehearsals. They assist the chorus manager by
keeping the section informed of changes regarding rehearsal location and
keeping track of attendance. Section leaders are appointed by the
director for a two-year term, during the second year of which they also
serve on the Chorus Council.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND PRODUCTION STAFF
The Chorus Manager manages all non-musical aspects of the Houston
Symphony Chorus and acts as a liaison between the chorus and Symphony
management. The chorus manager's duties include overseeing all matters
pertaining to attendance and general membership policies as well as
supervising the production staff of the chorus.
The Stage Manager is responsible for all production matters related to
the chorus on stage, including ensuring that the proper number of chairs
are set and that the chorus is in place at the appointed time.
The Chair Mover is responsible for setting the rehearsal site with the
appropriate number of rows and chairs required for the chorus.
The Wardrobe Manager is responsible for disseminating costume information
to all new members in accordance with concert dress policies; maintaining
the chorus wardrobe room; and lending costumes to members when necessary.
The Librarian is responsible for maintaining the chorus library,
distributing and collecting music, and keeping a record of unreturned
music and music which has been purchased by members.
The Stage Manager, Chair Mover, Wardrobe Manager and Librarian are
appointed by the Chorus Manager in consultation with Symphony management.
The Chorus Treasurer is elected by and from the chorus for a two-year
term. The treasurer maintains a record of incoming and outgoing money in
the chorus accounts, such as dues, music deposits and score purchases.The
treasurer serves on the Chorus Council.
CHORUS COUNCIL
The Chorus Council is an advisory group of appointed and elected members
from the chorus. It meets once a month, to discuss topics such as chorus
policies as set forth by Symphony management and internal issues such as
social activities and any other activity pertinent to the operation of
the chorus. The Council is made up of four section leaders (soprano,
alto, tenor, bass); four at-large members elected for one year terms by
the chorus; and the treasurer. The Council officers, elected by the
Council members, are chairperson, vice-chairperson and recording
secretary. The Director, Associate Director and Chorus Manager attend
Council meetings; however, the Council may meet in private session from
time to time.
Ian_Fetterley @ slb.com