Our professional team of Patron Services Specialists are available to personally address the needs of our donors. 

Patron Services Team:

Hometown:
Houston, TX

Education:
B.A. in Vocal Performance from Mercer University in Macon, GA
M.A. in Theatre from University of Houston

Background/Previous work:
I’ve had wonderful experiences with Glimmerglass Opera in Cooperstown, New York, and locally with the Houston Grand Opera.   Throughout my undergraduate studies, whether as music assistant for the choral director or as a performer in university opera productions, I enjoyed learning about all aspects of the fine arts world. While pursuing my Masters degree, I had the privilege of working as a music dramaturg for nationally renowned director Kim Wield, and an assistant stage manager for the Moores School of Music. Even though my first love is music, I believe that we can change the quality of education for our youth if we are willing to be an active participant in the process. I have 3 years of experience working with children of all ages: an elementary after-school teacher, a long term high school substitute teacher, and a teacher's assistant at the university level. 

What attracted you to the Houston Symphony:
I was extremely impressed with the Symphony's efforts to be a high-caliber orchestra as well as a well-rounded, community oriented arts organization. The list of meaningful community and education programs offered to students, senior citizens, and others in the community convinced me of the genuine sincerity and passion the Symphony has to make a difference. The success of such programs and the hearts and active participation of the musicians and staff are evidence that music is essential nourishment to maintaining the health and prosperity of the Houston community.

Hobbies:
Salsa dancing, exercising,

Samantha M. Gonzalez
Hometown:
Waller, TX

Education:
University of Houston

Background:
Samantha M. Gonzalez is originally from Guadalajara, Mexico. Moved to the US and was raised in the small town of Waller, TX. In Waller, she joined the band and excelled in music, playing the clarinet. After high school, she attended the University of Houston. While at the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music, she was in the Wind Ensemble, Spirit of Houston Cougar Marching Band, and was President of Sigma Alpha Iota- International Music Fraternity for Women. During her studies, she studied clarinet with Randall Griffin- Principal Clarinetist of Houston Ballet. Having worked at the Houston Ballet since July of 2008, she was inspired to get more involved in working with the Arts. Working for any orchestra has always been a goal of hers, but the Houston Symphony is particularly special, as Samantha loves this city! In her spare time Samantha loves to spend time with her family, especially her niece, Sofia and nephew, Julian. Samantha is also crazy about the Houston Rockets and is an avid NBA fan. Finally, Samantha is an active member of The Prince of Peace Catholic Community.

Hometown:
San Antonio, TX

Education:
B.A. in Music from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi
Minor in Business Administration

Background:
Music has played an important roll in Danny Hutchins life since an early age. Danny started playing double bass and cello at the age 10. He excelled quickly performing with the Texas All-State Orchestra during all four years of high school. In 1997, he traveled to Australia on a tour with the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio as Principal Double Bass. Most recently, Hutchins has performed with the Victoria Symphony and Laredo Philharmonic as well as the Islander Chamber Players, a faculty ensemble, at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi. After graduation, he quickly landed a job with the Corpus Christi Symphony as Production Coordinator and Box Office Manager as well as Coordinator of the Corpus Christi Area Youth Orchestra. After one season with the Corpus Christi Symphony, Hutchins moved to Houston and accepted his current position with the Houston Symphony and is enjoying working as a Patron Services Specialist.