Houston, TX - The Houston Ebony Music Society, Inc. (“HEMS”)/ Houston Ebony Opera Guild™ (“HEOG”) is proud to announce the appointment of Gregory D. McDaniel as its new Artistic Director, marking a new chapter in the organization’s storied legacy of celebrating and advancing the contributions of Black classical musicians and composers. A Houston native and respected conductor and educator, McDaniel has spent his career cultivating musical excellence in various musical spaces. He is currently the Colton Conducting Fellow for the New Jersey Symphony and has served several symphony orchestras and opera companies nationally. McDaniel received his bachelor’s degree in Choral Music Education from the University of Houston and received his master’s degree in Orchestral Conducting from the University of North Texas. The HEMS Board of Directors is excited about the artistic leadership of McDaniel and feels his vision and experience will be a great added value resource when he takes the helm of HEOG on July 1, 2025.

“I look forward to continuing the culture of excellence that is HEOG,” says McDaniel. “In collaboration with our board of directors and support organizations, I aim to introduce innovative strategies to engage new audiences and enhance the relevance of our contributions to the art form.” 

McDaniel succeeds the distinguished Dr. Jason Oby, who is stepping down after an extraordinary 28-year tenure with the organization, serving in several other capacities before becoming the Artistic Director. Under Oby’s visionary leadership, HEOG has flourished as one of Houston’s important cultural beacons, fostering emerging African American talent, presenting high-caliber performances, and championing the rich repertoire of underrepresented composers.  

Founded in 1984 by the late distinguished conductor, composer, and musician Dr. Robert A. Henry, HEOG, based in Houston, remains a distinguished ensemble committed to showcasing opera, traditional Negro spirituals, and other classical music genres, continues to honor its legacy through performances that celebrate African American musical heritage. In April 2025, HEOG marked its 40th anniversary with a landmark concert at The Hobby Center, featuring William Grant Still’s opera Highway 1, USA, and a choral tribute to influential figures in its history.

For more information about the Houston Ebony Music Society and upcoming performances, please visit www.houstonebonymusic.org.

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