Houston Chamber Choir Opens 21st Season with the Complete Choral Works of Maurice Duruflé

Houston Chamber Choir opens its 21st season, establishing itself once again as Houston's leading choral organization, with a much-anticipated performance of the Complete Choral Works of French composer Maurice Duruflé. In a collaboration with world-renowned organist, Ken Cowan, the performance takes place at Rice University Organ Hall on September 24 at 7:30 PM and September 25 at 4PM.

The program is comprised of Durufle's Messe Cum jubilo (Mass for male choir), the Gregorian motets, Quatre motets sur des thèmes grégoriens, and Duruflé's beloved Requiem which is being performed in memory of Pauline "Pete" Schweppe, long-time supporter of The Houston Chamber Choir.

Duruflé's use of the organ to support his choral writings is no coincidence. The composer himself was in great demand as an organist. He and his second wife became a famous and popular organ duo, going on tour together throughout the sixties and early seventies. Duruflé was also titular organist of St-Étienne-du-Mon in Paris, a position he held for the rest of his life.

In a magical pairing of talent and composer with venue, this program will offer the listener the opportunity to enjoy Duruflé's works at their best. Ken Cowan, praised as one of North America's finest concert organist is thrilled to team with Houston Chamber Choir on this repertoire. "The acoustics of the recital hall at Rice are really optimum for this kind of music and the organ is an ideal instrument. To perform this with a great choir like Houston Chamber Choir is a rare opportunity," says Cowan. In 2012 Mr. Cowan joined the keyboard faculty of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University as Associate Professor and head of the organ program. He received the Master's degree and Artist Diploma from the Yale School of Music/Institute of Sacred Music.

The Houston Chamber Choir is a professional ensemble of 27 singers who have trained at the best conservatories and music schools around the world. In 2015 the Chamber Choir received The American Prize for best choral performance in the country and its artistic director Robert Simpson received the award in the conducting category.

Tickets are $36 for Adults and $32 for Seniors (65+). Student tickets are available for $10 with valid student ID. They can be purchase online at www.houstonchamberchoir.org, or on site the day of the performance. Advanced purchase is recommended because of limited seating capacity.