Fairfax and Risher Randall to be honored; gala chairs are Cece and Mack Fowler
HOUSTON, February 19, 2019 – Houston Chamber Choir has announced that the honorees for its 2019 gala are long-time patrons and supporters of the Choir, Fairfax and Risher Randall. Some Enchanted Evening party-goers will enjoy signature Mai Tai cocktails, fine dining with stunning panoramic views, stirring musical performances featuring the Houston Chamber Choir and the most exquisite shopping experience in town, all from the 35th floor of Houston’s own Petroleum Club.
“As long-time members of Christ Church Cathedral, Risher and I have witnessed what Bob Simpson has done for our church’s music program, which has been recognized for its superiority in this country and beyond,” says Fairfax Randall. “As founder and Artistic Director of Houston Chamber Choir, he has taken that same passion, energy and talent in leading the organization to new heights with magnificent programming and artistic vision. This commitment to excellence makes Risher and I feel greatly honored to be chosen as the 2019 Gala Honorees.”
Chairing the gala are Cece and Michael “Mack” Fowler, who are passionate supporters of Houston Chamber Choir, along with several other charitable causes. Mack has been the guiding force behind New Hope Housing for 20 years, which addresses affordable housing and the homeless population with the mission of “building communities and restoring lives.” The Fowlers have graciously donated time and financial resources to many worthwhile nonprofits that improve the cultural and social fabric of Houston.
“We are incredibly proud to honor Fairfax and Risher Randall, who give generously of their time and resources on behalf of Houston Chamber Choir,” says Managing Director Mariam Khalili. “The Randalls are movers and shakers in the Houston business and nonprofit communities, and we appreciate their passion for our organization.”
“Some Enchanted Evening will also be a special night acknowledging our generous donors and spotlighting the tremendous talent of the Houston Chamber Choir,” Khalili continues. “Our gala chairs, Cece and Mack Fowler, and their committee, have been hard at work planning what is sure to be an entertaining and unforgettable party for our guests.”
Master of Ceremonies for the evening’s activities is St. John Flynn, respected music expert and former program director and on-air talent for KUHA-FM, the classical station of Houston Public Media. Flynn is known for his extensive knowledge of classical music, engaging and witty stage presence, and is a beloved Houston icon and friend of the Houston Chamber Choir.
Funds raised for Some Enchanted Evening will support the programming of the Houston Chamber Choir for the upcoming season, ensuring that the organization’s artistic excellence continues. Sponsorships for the gala are available at the following levels: Polynesian Paradise: $10,000; Majestic Palms: $5,000; Turquoise Lagoon: $3,000, with single tickets priced at $250, $500, and $1,000. Please visit our website at houstonchamberchoir.org/2019galafor details and to secure tickets before the March 11 recognition deadline. Dress is black-tie optional, and complimentary valet parking is provided for all guests.
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.
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Photo Caption: Risher and Fairfax Randall are the honorees for Houston Chamber Choir’s Some Enchanted Evening gala Mar. 24 at the Petroleum Club.
Dropbox link to photos here.
For additional information on performance dates, press material, or information on scheduling an interview, please contact: Carol Brejot, 713-503-3885; carol@carolbrejotpr.com.