Houston Show Choir Leadership & Affiliations
Executive Directors
Mark Calima & Van English
Mark Calima first joined Houston Show Choir in 2018 and soon thereafter was elected to the Board as Director of Fundraising, where he served for four successful years. Mark also performs with HSC as a tenor with H-Town Sound and as director of the a cappella group, Untamed Melody. He is a former music educator and currently works as a travel professional. Mark holds bachelor’s degrees in chemistry (University of Texas) and music education (University of Houston).
Van English joined HSC in 2021 and was soon appointed to the Board as Director of Development, where he launched the choir’s 90th anniversary capital campaign. Van also performs with HSC as a member of the Vocal Combo. He is a former higher-education administrator and currently works as a freelance writer-editor. He holds a bachelor of arts degree in English, with minors in French, classics, and voice from Troy University.
Mark and Van began their service as Co-Executive Directors in 2023. In this capacity, they are able to combine their respective experiences and skills with their passion for performing.
Interim Artistic Director
Jennifer Agbu
Jennifer received both her Bachelor and Masters of Music in Music Education at the University of Houston. During her time at UH, she founded The Lyric Players and sang in the UH Concert Women’s Chorus, Concert Chorale, Floreat, and Acabellas. She joined the Houston Symphony Chorus shortly after graduation and most recently sang with Cantare Houston. Jennifer has also performed in various local musical theatre productions.
While Jennifer loves performing, she feels that teaching is her calling. She currently teaches choir in Katy ISD where she leads an active program of over 200 students. Jennifer is a sought after clinician, adjudicator, and presenter.
When not rehearsing, Jennifer may be found exploring Houston area restaurants, reading a book, or binging the latest tv series.
She is excited to serve as the Interim Artistic Director of The Houston Show Choir.
Collaborative Pianist
Jeremy Larson
With a diverse background in music performance and education, Jeremy has become a sought-after pianist in various musical settings. Houston Show Choir is indeed fortunate to have secured him as our gifted, versatile Collaborative Pianist.
Jeremy holds undergraduate degrees in Piano Performance and Horn Performance from Eastern Washington University. His passion for music led him to further his studies by earning a master's degree in Horn Performance from Western Michigan University and a master's degree in Collaborative Piano from the University of Houston, where he is employed as a Staff Pianist.
As a dedicated educator, Jeremy teaches private piano lessons, nurturing the next generation of musicians. His freelance work as a pianist has provided countless opportunities to collaborate with other artists and ensembles.
Jeremy's exceptional skills have been recognized through numerous awards and achievements. He received the prestigious James Edmonds Collaborative Pianist Award two years in a row at Eastern Washington University. As a member of a chamber ensemble consisting of two flutes and piano, Jeremy was also a prize winner at the 19th Annual International Kuhlau Competition held in Germany.
With his unique blend of expertise, passion, and good humor, Jeremy makes a significant positive impact on the Houston Show Choir and the broader music community.
Lead Choreographer
Sasha Redmon
Having performed on stage most of her life, Sasha Redmon brings an infectious brand of energy and expertise to the Houston Show Choir as our first-ever Lead Choreographer.
Through theatrical productions, solo forums, and performances at Houston’s Jones Hall, Smart Financial , and the Hobby Center for Performing Arts with Gilbert & Sullivan, Sasha has polished her skills as singer, dancer, teacher, and choreographer.
When she isn’t performing, Sasha is serving Houston Christian University as Assistant Director in the donations office, and of course, counting her blessings as part of the HSC community.