Houston Chamber Choir presents The Unicorn, the Gorgon and the Manticore at St. Philip Presbyterian Church on Nov. 18

Patrons invited to reception at Yia Yia Mary’s restaurant after the concert

WHAT: In keeping with its mission to provide unique and compelling choral music to the greater Houston community, the Houston Chamber Choir’s third concert of the season presents the work of Gian Carlo Menotti, featuring guest artists from METdance. An enchanting 16th-century madrigal comedy sparked Menotti’s genius when he was commissioned by the Library of Congress to write this work in 1956. Scored for chorus, 10 dancers and nine instruments, it depicts three stages in the life of the story’s protagonist, a strange poet who keeps mythical creatures as pets. This staged and costumed presentation affords the perfect opportunity to experience the dramatic flair and tunefulness for which Menotti is so well known.

Houston Chamber Choir presents The Unicorn, the Gorgon and the Manticore on Nov. 18 at St. Philip Presbyterian Church with guest artists from METdance.

WHO: The professional men and women singers of the Houston Chamber Choir will be led by conductor Robert Simpson. He is founder and artistic director of the Houston Chamber Choir and Canon for Music at historic Christ Church Cathedral (Episcopal in Houston). The Choir will be joined by guest artists from METdance.

WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 18 from 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: St. Philip Presbyterian Church, 4807 San Felipe St., 77056

MORE:  There is ample free parking in the church lot. Patrons are invited to join Chamber Choir singers, dancers, instrumentalists and Robert Simpson immediately after the performance for a celebration at Yia Yia Mary’s Pappas Mediterranean Kitchen. Complimentary light bites and drinks will be provided. This private party will take place on the patio, reserved exclusively for Houston Chamber Choir patrons and artists. Yia Yia Mary’s is located adjacent to the performance venue, allowing guests the option of walking to the party.

Check out our website at houstonchamberchoir.org, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Houston Chamber Choir

The Houston Chamber Choir has established itself as one of the premier professional choirs in the United States, serving Houston through concerts and educational initiatives that enlighten, entertain, and educate people of all ages. Winner of Chorus America’s 2018 Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence, it has been described by The Tallis Scholars founder Peter Phillips as “one of this country’s leading ensembles.” The Choir also received The American Prize for best choral performance in the country and its Artistic Director Robert Simpson received the award in the conducting category in 2015. The Chamber Choir recently finished recording their fifth CD, The Complete Choral Works of Maurice Duruflé, with organist Ken Cowan in April 2018.

Led by Artistic Director Robert Simpson, the Houston Chamber Choir is composed of 20 professional singers, most of whom have studied at the top music schools and conservatories in the United States including Julliard, New England Conservatory, University of Houston, and the University of Texas. These musicians are selected through rigorous auditions from the finest singers in our region and are compensated for all rehearsals and performances.