The Houston Symphony pledges to continue and grow initiatives to improve equity, inclusivity, and diversity with refreshed and renewed commitment at every level of our organization. This includes race, ethnicity, cultural experiences, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, physical and mental ability, education, and religion.
During the 2020–21 and 2021–22 seasons, we committed to include musical selections composed by women and people of color on all programs, and we will continue that process into future seasons.
The mission of the Houston Symphony is to inspire and engage a large and diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.
In 2025, the Houston Symphony will be America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestra.
Excellence: Committed to the highest level of artistic, administrative, board and volunteer quality and performance
Community Engagement: Foster meaningful experiences with our patrons and community
Education: Promote learning opportunities for listeners and students of all ages
Innovation: Pioneer and implement new and creative ideas in our work
Relevance: Provide musical performances and resources that enhance the lives of our stakeholders and community
Financial Sustainability: Responsibly invest in our present and dutifully plan for our future
Inclusivity: Embrace and promote diversity across all levels of our organization
Collaboration: Approach relationships with a spirit of respect and interconnectedness
Through a yearlong process in 2014 that drew on the expertise of over four dozen members of the Houston Symphony’s board, orchestra, staff and community members, our organizational goals have been refined to reflect the values we hold most dear and the organization we wish to become.
From Beethoven, Lang Lang, and Carmina burana to The Music of Queen, Star Wars, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, there are so many exciting concerts in store!