HCU Choirs performing the National Anthem at the Sugar Land Space Cowboys baseball game
All are welcome! From the novice to the advanced singer of any major, we have a place for you in either our University Singers or Schola Cantorum. Not only will you perform great and exciting music, you will have the opportunity to improve your singing technique and make new friendships along the way.

Choral students often receive opportunities to perform throughout Houston and on tour in the US and abroad. They also enjoy the opportunity to work with outstanding conductors and composers such as Alice Parker, Morten Lauridsen and J.A.C. Redford, all of whom have visited campus. The choirs often collaborate with other local performing organizations such as the Houston Choral Society and the Houston Civic Symphony.

The HCU choirs are known for their artistry and performances of a wide range of repertoire. Recently, the ensembles performed several major works with orchestra, including selections from G. F. Handel’s Messiah, Francis Poulenc’s Gloria, John Rutter’s Psalmfest, and Dan Forrest’s Requiem for the Living. Works by contemporary composers have been featured, such as those by Morten Lauridsen, Ola Gjeilo, Stacey V. Gibbs, Daniel Gawthrop, and Judith Shatin.

Join Us!

University Singers

MUSI 1113 – Tu/Th 2:00-3:15 p.m.
No audition required

Schola BelinHCU’s largest chorus, University Singers, is open to all students. There is no audition to join. As a member of the choir, you will grow in your understanding of basic vocal techniques, music theory, sight reading, and choral repertoire. All you need to do is register for the course and show up on the first day. University Singers performs on their own and in collaboration with Schola Cantorum, frequently representing HCU in church services, concerts, and tours.

Schola Cantorum

MUSI 2111 – MWF 2:00-3:30 p.m.
Audition required

HCU’s “flagship” chorus, Schola Cantorum, is an auditioned ensemble that performs the most sophisticated and advanced choral repertoire. To be selected as a member of Schola Cantorum, students must demonstrate expertise in sight-singing, excellence in vocal development, and a deep commitment to the artistry of the choir. Schola Cantorum performs on their own and in collaboration with University Singers, frequently representing HCU in church services, concerts, and tours.

Choir Concerts

Fall Choral Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum & University Singers
Tuesday, October 7 | 7:30 pm
Belin Chapel

Featuring works by Pitoni, Tallis, Dilworth,
Howells, Gyöngyösi, and more.
Free admission

High School Choral Invitational Concert
Featuring outstanding local high school choirs and HCU’s Schola Cantorum
Thursday, October 30 | 7:00 pm
Dunham Theater
Free admission

Christmas Convocation Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum and University Singers
Wednesday, December 3 | 11:00 am
Dunham Theater
Free admission

Christmas at HCU Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum, University Singers, and the Houston Civic Symphony
Friday, December 5 | 7:30 pm
Dunham Theater

Choral Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum and University Singers
Friday, February 20 | 7:30 pm
Belin Chapel
Works on the theme of “time,” featuring pieces by Brahms, Esenvalds, Hagenberg, Powell, Kramlich, and more.
Free admission

Choral Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum
Friday, April 10 | 7:30 pm
Belin Chapel
Featuring works by Britten, Runestad, Jenkins, Gjeilo, and more.
Free admission

Choral Concert
HCU Schola Cantorum and University Singers, plus a chamber orchestra
Friday, May 1 | 7:30 pm
Dunham Theater
Works centered on the Nicene Creed/HCU Convocation Theme for 2025-26, including Mozart’s Mass in C Major, K. 257 “Credo” and more.
Free admission

Experience Our Choir

 

“Alleluia” by Ola Gjeilo
World Premiere by the HCU Choirs and Houston Choral Society

 

“Ave Maria” by Ola Gjeilo
World Premiere by the HCU Choirs and Houston Choral Society