Mark Vogel
Artistic Director
Since arriving in Houston in 2014, Mark Vogel has quickly established himself in this city’s vibrant musical culture as a performer, conductor, and educator. In addition to his position as Artistic Director of International Voices Houston, he is also Music Director at Congregation Beth Israel, and Music Director at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston in the Museum District. In the Spring of 2016, he also held the position of Interim Artistic Director of the Woodlands Chorale.
Mark’s passion for performing is equaled only by his love of music education. He has held teaching positions at Lone Star College, as well as the Kinkaid School and St. Pius X High School. He is also known for his creative piano performance-lectures, given at such venues as San Jacinto College and the UT Health and Science Center.
His extensive musical training includes a Master’s degree in piano performance from Manhattan School of Music studying with Ruth Laredo, and a Bachelor’s degree in piano performance from the University of Iowa studying with Rene Lecuona.
Mark moved to Houston from Washington, D.C., where for nine years he was an active music director and pianist, performing at such venues as the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Concert Hall, National Cathedral, Wolf Trap Performing Arts Center, and the Library of Congress. He has performed with ensembles including Washington Master Chorale, the Fairfax Chamber Ensemble, Washington Men’s Camerata, Aurora Opera, the Washington Ballet Orchestra, the Army Chorus, Woodley Ensemble, Vienna Choral Society, and more.
Mark became Artistic Director of International Voices Houston for 2016-2017, the choir’s 18th season. Under Mark’s direction, the choir has expanded from a 2 program concert season to a 3+ program concert season, with multiple sellout shows every performance weekend.
Paul Butt
Accompanist
Paul was born in Alaska, grew up in Oregon, and now lives in Houston. He began studying music seriously when he was awarded lessons from the American Guild of Organists in High School.
Paul attended Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, and graduated with a degree in piano performance. He moved to Houston to attend Rice University and graduated with a Master’s degree in organ performance.
Paul has played for choirs on tour in Ireland, France, Austria, and most enjoyed playing for choral events at St. Patrick’s, Dublin, and Notre Dame and La Madeleine, Paris. He has been a musician for Lutheran, Methodist, Christian Science, Presbyterian, Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ, and Episcopal churches.
Paul is presently organist at First Methodist Houston. He has been accompanying International Voices Houston since 2007.
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