Music at Rienzi

Rienzi partners with HGO Studio and Early Music Southwest to host a series of magnificent recitals reverent of 18th-century art and culture. Amidst the gorgeous surroundings of Rienzi's fine art gallery and ballroom, music patrons enjoy a vibrantly aesthetic acoustic experience. A docent-guided walkthrough tour and reception with wine and light hors d'oeuvres are included with admission. Evening performances offer valet parking.

A live music recital makes a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening with family, friends, colleagues, or special guests. Recital passes make thoughtful gifts as well! Please call if you would like personalized assistance. Tickets are also available online: visit the website calendar to secure seats for your desired performance date, or call 713.639.7800.


Early Music Southwest

Early Music Southwest is an international collaboration of baroque-music professionals who specialize in the performance of chamber music of the 17th and 18th centuries on original instruments. EMSW was established in 2000 by noted harpsichordist Christina Edelen, former faculty member at Baylor and the University of Houston; and international orchestral cellist Frederick Edelen, member of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam. The Edelens organize this delightful Sunday series for Rienzi.

2012–2013 Performance Schedule
• Sunday, December 2, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
  "Natale con Strumenti a Corda"
• Sunday, February 17, at 3 p.m. "Baroque à la Carte"
• Sunday, April 7, at 3 p.m. "Viva Italia!"


Houston Grand Opera Studio


Audiences are invited to experience the exceptional talents of young, up-and-coming artists from Houston Grand Opera Studio.

Developed thematically, each performance features a repertoire of works by renowned composers and surprise talents, selected for your enjoyment by HGO Studio members. Admission is $40 and tickets include valet parking and a wine and cheese reception. Season passes are available from Houston Grand Opera. 

20122013 Performance Schedule
• Friday and Saturday, December 14 and 15, at 7:30 p.m. SOLD OUT
• Friday, March 22, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, at 5 p.m.
• Thursday and Friday, May 9 and 10, at 7:30 p.m.

The Houston Grand Opera Studio Series is underwritten by a generous grant from the Alkek and Williams Foundation.


Timothy Hester in Concert

"A Pair of Haydns and a Pair of Mozarts"
Sunday, September 23 at 3 p.m.

Fortepianist and University of Houston associate professor Timothy Hester performs a work by Franz Joseph Haydn, along with a work by the composer's brother, Johann Michael Haydn. Hester will also perform a work by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a keyboard sonata by a lesser-known contemporary of Mozart's: Joseph Martin Kraus, known as the “Swedish Mozart.”

Prior to the performance, wander leisurely through Rienzi and chat with docents about the house museum and its remarkable collection of European decorative arts and paintings. The recital is followed by a wine and cheese reception.

Admission is $18 for MFAH Members; $20 for nonmembers. For tickets call 713.639.7800 or click here.


Patrons Pass

Become a Friend of Rienzi's Musical Recitals with Patron-level season tickets to the series by Early Music Southwest. Patrons Pass members help underwrite the series. Each Patron's name will be listed in Rienzi's annual "Thank You" booklet.

Please call 713.639.7800 if you wish to help sponsor these popular music events as a Patrons Pass member.

Early Music Southwest Patrons Pass
$200 pledge includes tickets to all four performances (Fair market value $80).