Houston Boychoir Annual Luncheon — Where Paths Lead Us | 2026

This year we are honored to name Robert Simpson and Marianna Parnas-Simpson, leaders in Houston's choral music culture, as our 2026 People of Character.

Robert and Marianna Simpson's paths crossed in Atlanta Georgia, where he arrived from New York, by way of Germany, and she from St. Petersburg, Russia. They developed their relationship as she sang in his choir at the Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta. His desire to establish a professional choir in Houston and her unending support, led them to become founder and a founding member respectively, of the Houston Chamber Choir, a multi-award-winning professional choir. While Mr. Simpson took his place as Canon for Music at Christ Church Cathedral in Houston, Ms. Simpson became a teacher at Parker Elementary School where she developed a chorus program that grew from 30 - 250 students (grades 1-5) and founded the Treble Choir of Houston in 2006. Both Robert and Marianna have earned many awards and accolades thoughout their careers. We are honored to have been a part of their journey.

For over 60 years, Houston Boychoir has served the Houston community with a single mission at heart, to build men of character through music. Houston Boychoir provides boys with an exemplary music education and the chance to see the world through the eyes of a traveler. Most importantly, Houston Boychoir provides boys with a place to belong and the tools to succeed, fostering the boys and young men who will continue to make Houston a desirable community for business, for families, and for the arts.

For Houston Boychoir, this year is full of potential, and your support will make it possible. Your tax-deductible donation will help fund our educational programs, outreach initiatives, and the personal and artistic growth of these young voices. This event will allow HBC boys to serve as ambassadors for their community, state, and country—while experiencing firsthand the universal power of music. Going on tour is a cornerstone of the Boychoir experience, a key part of their growth as individuals and musicians. This year they head to the heart of the United States visiting Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. As teachers and mentors we are proud to be part of the journey of these young musicians and excited to see where their paths lead.

Please help us provide this experience to even more boys by becoming a sponsor for our luncheon, Where Paths Lead Us | 2026