This shared experience combines many artistic traditions that demonstrate and articulate these collective beliefs. In this regard, music in its many forms, is a special vehicle. In the context of a religious tradition, music can teach, delight, invoke the sacred and, at times, evoke the ineffable. It can express the inexpressible. Yet, it communicates even when it is indescribable.

For six years, between 2010 – 2016, these concerts presented a wide range of diverse programming that celebrated the city’s amazing mix of cultural communities.  The performances showcased both the long-lived communities of Houston, as well as more recent immigrants to the city. The events were meant to honor the rich sacred music traditions of the city’s faith communities and, in the process educate Houstonians about their neighbors through the beauty and power of distinctive styles of devotional music. 

Over time, the Houston Folklife Collection undertook more and more elaborate ways to document each year’s presentation — sometimes reviewing the range of traditions included in the concert; or, conversely, focusing on a particular one. Explore the video highlights that resulted from the programs.