A HARMONIOUS FAREWELL

Under Weber’s direction, the University of Houston Concert Chorale recently celebrated a monumental victory at the International Choral Competition Ave Verum in Austria. “The win is significant, but what’s even more remarkable is that four of the six judges gave us a perfect score of 100. I've never seen that happen anywhere before,” she beamed. This accolade adds to an impressive list of achievements, including being ranked among the top 10 collegiate choirs in the U.S. and the third-best choir in the world in 2015. 

Weber’s teaching philosophy is rooted in empowering her students. “I could probably ensure a win more efficiently by handling things differently... Instead, we choose an entirely different repertoire, and the students have to teach it to themselves,” she explained. This approach not only challenges her students but also instills a sense of ownership and leadership in them. Kaitlin DeSpain, one of Weber’s former students and now Interim Director of Choral Studies, remarked, "Betsy left many marks on the UH choral program, but perhaps her most significant accomplishment was fostering a sense of student ownership. She taught us that if we’re held to high standards, we’ll rise to the challenge and contribute more than any professor could do alone." 

Reflecting on Weber's influence, Brian Chin, director of the Moores School of Music, said, “I can’t imagine the Moores School of Music without Betsy over the past 20-plus years. There was a time when alumni would tell you she was by far the most influential person here. Her humility would prevent her from saying it herself, but her contributions to choral music education in this state are significant. She has actively thought about the future of the choral program, both through philanthropic efforts and by cementing her legacy. She’s done it all with grace, passing the reins in a way that has set up her successor, Kaitlin DeSpain, for success, as evidenced by Kaitlin already thriving in her role.”