Renowned soprano and Shepherd School of Music professor Ana María Martínez has been appointed the 2026 Texas State Musician-Classical, one of the state’s highest artistic honors. The designation was formally announced May 26 at the Texas Capitol where House resolutions named a new cohort of state artists selected for their excellence, influence and dedication to the arts in Texas.
Martínez joins a distinguished list of honorees that includes fellow and former appointees Norah Jones, Miranda Lambert, Alecia Lawyer, Kevin Prufer and Letitia Huckaby. The appointment recognizes not only Martínez’s international impact on classical music but also her deep ties to the state of Texas, where she has built a vibrant presence as a performer, educator and artistic leader.
“I am thrilled to know that classical music is recognized and celebrated by our great state of Texas, and I join my fellow appointees in joyfully supporting music and the arts in our community,” Martínez said. “It is an honor to be part of the legacy of our state as we recognize and champion all that music can do to lift our community, inspire our nation and contribute to the betterment of all of society.”
Martínez, a Grammy winner, has performed leading roles in the world’s top opera houses and concert halls from the Metropolitan Opera and Vienna Staatsoper to the Teatro alla Scala and Royal Opera House Covent Garden. Her portrayals of characters such as Rusalka, Carmen and Cio-Cio-San have earned widespread acclaim as have her collaborations with celebrated conductors including Gustavo Dudamel, Esa-Pekka Salonen and Bernard Haitink.
In Houston, Martínez has shaped the local music scene through her longtime relationship with Houston Grand Opera and her role as professor of voice at Rice. She first joined the Shepherd School as an artist-in-residence in 2019 and now mentors the next generation of vocal talent.
“Ana María is a musical force whose artistry is matched only by her generosity of spirit,” said Matthew Loden, the Lynette S. Autrey Dean of Music. “This recognition by the Texas Commission on the Arts is not just a celebration of her international stature but of her lasting influence on students, audiences and the future of classical music in Texas.”
The Texas State Artist appointments are administered by the Texas Commission on the Arts and selected by a committee appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the Texas House. According to the commission, honorees must demonstrate the highest level of achievement in their disciplines and contribute meaningfully to the state’s cultural identity.
Learn more about Martínez and the Shepherd School here.