HCU Choirs performing the National Anthem at the Sugar Land Space Cowboys baseball game

HCU Choral Ensembles

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 Belin
HCU’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.

2022-2023 Choir Concerts

  • Fall 2022

    Fall Choral Concert
    Friday, October 7, 2022 | 7:30 p.m.
    Belin Chapel
    Featuring HCU’s University Singers and Schola Cantorum
    Music by Felix Mendelssohn, Benjamin Britten, Susan LaBaar, Eric Whitacre, and more.
    Free Admission

    High School Choral Invitational Concert
    Tuesday, October 11, 2022 | 7:00 p.m.
    Dunham Theater
    Performing choirs from Bellaire High School, Elkins High School, and Mayde Creek High School, along with HCU’s Schola Cantorum.
    Free Admission

    Christmas at HCU
    Friday, December 2, 2022 | 7:30 p.m.
    Dunham Theater
    Featuring HCU’s University Singers and Schola Cantorum in collaboration with the Houston Civic Symphony. Music includes carol arrangements and audience participation.
    Free Admission

    Christmas Convocation
    Wednesday, December 7, 2022 | 11:00 a.m.
    Dunham Theater
    Featuring HCU’s University Singers and Schola Cantorum. Music includes carol arrangements and audience participation
    Free Admission

  • Spring 2023

    Choral Concert
    Friday, March 3, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
    Belin Chapel
    Featuring HCU’s University Singers and Schola Cantorum
    Music includes great hymns of our faith.
    Free Admission

    Choral Concert featuring Schola Cantorum
    Thursday, March 9, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
    Belin Chapel
    Program will feature composers from the Renaissance to the 21st century.

    Choral Collaboration Concert
    Saturday, April 29, 2023 | 7:30 p.m.
    Foundry United Methodist Church (Jones Road)
    Featuring HCU’s University Singers and Schola Cantorum in collaboration with the Houston Choral Society and professional union orchestra. Music includes the performance of Dan Forrest’s Jubilate Deo, a celebration of Psalm 100 in seven languages. For tickets, visit houstonchoral.org

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