In a surprise ceremony at Christ Church Cathedral, Houston on Sunday, November 8, 2009, The Rt. Rev. Andrew Doyle, Bishop of Texas, conferred the title of Canon for Music on Robert Simpson, SMM, AAGO, ChM. The Very Rev. Joe D. Reynolds, Dean, and members of the Cathedral Choir worked with the Bishop to plan this occasion, which included the presentation of a new vestment in “Canon Purple” to the 6′8″ musician.
Simpson is the first organist-choirmaster in the Diocese of Texas to receive this honor while still active. His two distinguished predecessors, Clyde Holloway and William Barnard, received this title upon their retirement.
Robert Simpson has been at Christ Church Cathedral since 1993, previously serving the Episcopal cathedrals in Orlando and Atlanta. In addition to his duties at Christ Church Cathedral, he is Lecturer of Church Music at the Shepherd School of Music, Rice University, and Artistic Director of the Houston Chamber Choir, a professional ensemble he founded 15 years ago. The Cathedral Choir will return to England in July for its third residency at Westminster Abbey.
March 26, 2010
THE DIAPASON
