Meet the Board of Directors

Get to Know the HMC Board of Directors And Staff

We’re focused on celebrating and connecting Houston through powerful innovative music that uplifts and educates.

Won’t You Join Us? We’d love to hear from you! Email or give us a call at 210-595-9862 to learn more.

office@houstonmasterworks.org

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Why did you join the HMC Board of Directors?

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Beside HMC, what’s your favorite music group and why?

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Where is your favorite place on earth? And Why?

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If time and money weren’t an issue, what would be at the top of your bucket list?

Vicki Merwin Board Chair

I wanted work with a small board, where I can make an impact and be involved in an aspect of art that I enjoy and can participate.
I don’t have a favorite group but have some favorite jazz singers; Tierney Sutton, Jane Monheit, Veronica Swift; Tierney Sutton, her unusual arrangements, Jane Monheit, her tonal quality, you can wallow in it, it is velvety, she is the female Mel Torme, Veronica Swift is hip.
Mountainview, Arkansas. It was unexpected delight. People stand on corners singing 4-part simple harmony playing string instruments. The best food is from McDonald’s and it is a dry country. It was like being back in the 50’s…
Heal everyone from their hurt and pain.

Emily Schulz Chorus President

I know I can help facilitate communication between the singers, artistic director and board. I want to serve and donate my time in order to strengthen and give back to an organization that has shone a light into my life and the lives of others.
I discovered a young band called Bailen out of NYC last year. It’s made up of three siblings whose parents are classical musicians. They remind me of Fleetwood Mac and the blood harmonies in their songs are really beautiful.
Probably pike fishing with my Dad out on one of the little lakes that dot northern Alberta. The skies and wildlife are marvelous to watch, punctured by moments of sheer thrill when the fish decide to bite.
I am a fish keeper and money is always an obstacle in this hobby, so I’d probably build a gigantic planted tank with exotic fish. Or take a trip to the UK: seeing Ireland, the Scottish Highlands, and exploring history around London are all dreams of mine

Tim Sesby Secretary

To help create opportunities for a diverse audience to see and hear the awesome ways we make classical and opera music cool.
In the city of Houston, it would have to be the Houston Symphony; Outside of the genre it is most likely Fleetwood Mac, Acker Bilk and a lot of Afrobeats. The eclecticness of Fleetwood is so interesting to the ears, especially when I compare it to the sounds today.
Sweden in the summer, it is so serene and peaceful, most of all the sun does not set till 11pm.
Probably attend every cup final of most ball sports, listen to Hans Zimmerman’s unreleased music, and lastly help as many people with what I have.

Chris Pickett Treasurer

I joined the HMC Board of Directors because of my passion for the choir and my desire to contribute more than just my voice. With my three kids growing older—two in college and one in high school—I now have more time to dedicate to this role. When Emily approached me with the opportunity, I was excited to consider it. I look forward to supporting the continued success of the choir and helping shape its future in meaningful ways.
This is a tough one! I enjoy a variety of music, from the latest pop hits on Spotify’s Pop Rising playlist to Spanish pop that keeps me energized while running or driving. If I had to pick an artist I’d love to see live it would probably be Lana Del Rey. Her unique sound and captivating lyrics always resonate with me.
My favorite place on earth is at the top of a ski slope covered in fresh powder. There’s nothing quite like the thrill and serenity of skiing down a mountain. I discovered my passion for skiing in my twenties, and it’s been a love affair ever since. The combination of breathtaking views, crisp mountain air, and the exhilaration of the descent makes it my ultimate happy place.
If time and money were no object, I would travel the world. I’d spend a couple of months in each destination, immersing myself in the local culture, food, wine, and language. I’d love to experience life as a local in different corners of the world, inviting friends and family to join me whenever they could. At the top of my bucket list are the stunning Greek Isles and the ancient marvel of Machu Picchu.

Emily Batchelor Director

I feel exceedingly privileged to have been elected by the chorus to represent them on the Board of Directors. I came into the choir under Dr. Allen Hightower, my college director, who taught me about responsibility, what we owe each other, professionalism, and taking pride in one’s craft by his lived example both at SHSU and beyond. To me, HMC is not just a choir- it’s a choral community that has nurtured me as a young musician, given me an outlet as an occasionally overwhelmed new parent, introduced me to lifelong friends and new musical experiences, and allowed me to perform in places that I never dreamed of. It is my distinct pleasure to serve the chorus in this role, and I hope to live out those ideals instilled in me so many years ago.
Green Day. Honestly, it’s quite hard to choose just one but I think I’ll always come back to Green Day. Their energy is unbridled and contagious, and they’re amazing live.
Snuggled up with my boys, reading them a story at night. There is no feeling quite like it. I love sharing my favorite stories with them and discovering new ones together.
I’d love to pack up our whole family and just be nomads for a few years. Experiencing different cultures as more than a tourist and spending time soaking up nature’s wonders would be such an incredible gift!

Kathleen Mensing Director

As a dedicated singer with HMC for many years, I want to give back and help an organization more on an organizational level.
Besides HMC, I have many other favorite music groups. I love my Church choir; I love musicals and am a long time member of TUTS. As a teenager I loved Credence Clear Water Revival, The Beach Boys, and Simon and Garfunkel.
My favorite place on earth is my home, its comfort, peacefulness, and family. Secondly, send me to England anytime and anywhere and I feel at home.
I have been most fortunate to have married a lovely man, my late husband, Brannon, who helped me fulfill most of my bucket list. But, if I could narrow down one thing I have left to do where time and money was no object, I’d make sure no child went to bed hungry or cold or alone.

David Stix Director

Why did you join the HMC Board of Directors? My employer was a corporate sponsor and I grew to love the HMC family.
Bruce Springsteen and the East Street Band.
San Sebastian, Spain: sea, mountains and the best food on the planet.
Drive from Sweden to Sicily, stopping at every landmark along the way.

Liz Sturman Director

For many years and in several countries it has been my passion to bring diverse people together to find purpose in music, outside their work and family life. It is a privilege to be able to continue this through the Board of HMC.
Easy question, it has to be Queen! For the tunes, the harmonies, the creativity. But you’ll find everything from Aerosmith through Taylor Swift to English madrigals on my playlists. Anything with a rockin’ melody to sing along to …
This one feels like choosing between your children! The moors of Derbyshire in the rain, memories of my dad and dog; on the cliffs at Sheringham, I love the sea; the beach at Panaga in Brunei at sunset, amazing colours; with my husband and daughter in Singapore ….. can’t choose!
Travel. COVID put our US adventure on hold for too long, so Charleston, Savannah, San Francisco, Key west, Niagara Falls, Seattle all still to be discovered!

Bruce Sealy Director

I was asked to be the Chorus President initially and even though I didn’t really have any specific experience in that regard from an organizational standpoint, I thought I would give it a try. Apparently, I did a good enough job that they asked me to hang around for a second year. I’m a very practical and matter of fact person and I try to bring those qualities to the board in a positive way. I’m now serving as the liaison to Chapelwood United Methodist Church, where we are fortunate enough to hold rehearsals and concerts.
That’s hard to say as I have very varied musical tastes – from classic rock, classic country, vocal music of many kinds (choral, a capella, small groups) and jazz. Groups like Led Zeppelin, artists such as Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash and classic jazz musicians like Maynard Ferguson, Duke Ellington and Miles Davis are all high on the list.
As our kids were growing up, it was always being at some sporting event that they were participating in – from volleyball to baseball – up through college where our son was lucky enough to be able to play. I always have enjoyed being anywhere that I can sing, so being a part of HMC as well as several groups at our church are places that make me happy.
Well, traveling is always an option, particularly since I’ve the opportunity to travel to many locales in the world for business but unfortunately my wife, Sharon, hasn’t had the chance to go with me, so it would be great to take her to places like Portugal, Spain and Brazil that she’s never had a chance to visit. I would definitely love to be able to help out our children with things like home purchases and other things that they may need.

Chris Rebman

When I was approached to join the board, I didn’t hesitate. Having been a member of many choruses, I can offer ideas by drawing on what I’ve seen work in other similar organizations. I also appreciate the opportunity to help guide the chorus in programming and musical content.
That’s a tough question! I love vocal jazz and groups that focus on perfecting tight harmonies while delivering incredible musical versatility. Groups like Chanticleer and Voces8 come to mind.
This will be a tie… I’m a huge fan of soaking up the sun in tropical locations on deserted beaches. At the same time, I’m a fan of hiking and love to venture to the tops of mountains and explore pine forests, see the blue sky and breathe in fresh air.
I would definitely spend months at a time traveling and exploring beaches and mountains everywhere. And, of course, soak up the “music” and “culture” every continent has to offer.

Lizzy Barrios

To learn about nonprofits from inside the business, to give my time to the choir that has saved me more than once, and to be an advocate for the arts in our communities.
Tricky one. I love Fleetwood Mac, the Beatles, Nightwish, and Voces8. My taste is a bit all over, I’m afraid! From classical to Symphonic metal! Ooo and I’m really into Chappell Roan right now! So artistic!
Truthfully, in my living room with my little family, watching tv or playing video games with our friends. It’s heaven! Outside of our home, I’d say walking around my childhood village in the UK!
Fly back to England to see my family, right now, and spend a few weeks there!

Valeria Bautista

I joined the HMC Board because my passion for singing began in choir in Venezuela, and I want to give my time and efforts to a wonderful choir that will foster a similar environment here in Houston.
In Houston, I am a very proud fan and former member of the University of Houston’s Concert Chorale. There are so many wonderful memories I associate with the group, and I feel lucky to have been a part of such high-quality music-making as well.
As cheesy as it sounds, my favorite place on earth is wherever my family is. Particularly my sister, if she is there, I have all that I need.
I would move to Paris and learn French, immerse myself in the culture, and try all their amazing wines and food!

HOUSTON MASTERWORKS CHORUS - ARTISTIC STAFf

Dr. Justin Langham - Artistic Director

Bio: Dr. Justin Langham enjoys a multi-faceted career as a conductor, composer, performer, and educator who is passionate about using his unique blend of experiences to connect with others through music.

Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Justin earned a bachelor’s degree in both performance and composition from the University of Alabama, followed by his masters and doctoral degrees from the University of Houston. He currently serves as Director of Music at St. Philip Presbyterian Church in Houston, Texas.

As founder and artistic director of the internationally renowned trumpet and organ duo, Deux Voix (“two voices”), Justin has curated and presented over 350 performances in some of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals and concert halls across 20 states and multiple overseas tours to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and France. He is also an award-winning composer and arranger, and a devoted educator, presenting lectures and masterclasses for many arts organizations, colleges, and universities around the country.

After serving as Adjunct Professor of Music at Lone Star College for eight years, Justin currently maintains a private teaching studio at his home in the Museum District, where he enjoys spending time with his partner and most trusted collaborator, pianist Andreea Muţ, and their Great Pyrenees mix Risa.

FOUNDING MUSIC DIRECTOR EMERITUS - Ara Carapetyan