Houston Hackett is a junior at the University of South Carolina pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Music Education, with a Vocal Performance Certificate and a minor in Social Work. At the university, Houston is an active performer and student leader. He has sung in a variety of ensembles including Gamecock Chorale, Carolina Alive, and the Concert Choir—the university’s flagship auditioned SATB ensemble. He is also a frequent member of small vocal groups and actively participates in the premiere of new choral works by local composers, such as Lift Up Your Eyes by Dr. Reginald Bain and Rahel m’vaca (Rachel Weeps) by Meira Warshauer.

 

Houston serves as President of the University of South Carolina’s American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Student Chapter and has been involved in Opera at USC, performing the role of Sir Desmond in Gilbert and Sullivan’s Ruddigore and assisting with technical aspects on other shows. Outside of the university, Houston sings with the Chancel Choir at Eastminster Presbyterian Church and is an active gigging vocalist across South Carolina, performing at a wide range of venues and events.

Houston is passionate about teaching, advocacy, and using the arts to connect with and uplift others. He aspires to a career as a music educator and education researcher, specifically working with low income students and families. In his free time, he enjoys baking, building dioramas, and spending time with his cat, Rick Owens.