Santa Fe Opera Announces Extension of Music Director & New Principal Conductor

By Francisco Salazar

The Santa Fe Opera has announced the extension of Harry Bicket’s contract as Music Director through the 2028 Season.

Bicket, who was appointed as Chief Conductor in 2013 and later Music Director in 2018, has led productions spanning a wide range of repertory, including “Pelléas et Mélisande,” “Così fan tutte,” “Candide” and “Alcina.”

In a statement General Director Robert K. Meya said, “It has been an honor to work with Harry over the past eight years, and I am delighted that he will continue as Music Director through 2028. He has been a defining artistic voice for the Santa Fe Opera, shaping the work of our orchestra and maintaining the highest musical standards. His Pelléas et Mélisande in 2023 remains a particular highlight, reflecting his deep understanding of the relationship between music and drama.”

Bicket added, “I am thrilled to have been asked to extend my Music Directorship at the Santa Fe Opera, a place that has been so central to my musical life since my debut in 2004. It is a huge privilege to work with my wonderful colleagues in management, the music staff, chorus and especially the extraordinary Santa Fe Opera Orchestra, and I look forward to the coming years of great music making in the High Desert.”

The company also announced that Iván López Reynoso will become the Principal Conductor, beginning in the 2027 season.

Reynoso made his American debut with the Santa Fe Opera in 2022, conducting “The Barber of Seville” and has developed a strong artistic relationship with the company, returning to conduct “La bohème” and the first-ever Apprentice Concert with orchestra in 2025.

In his new position López Reynoso will collaborate closely with Maestro Bicket and company leadership, conducting selected mainstage productions and contributing to the artistic quality and high musical standards of the Santa Fe Opera.

 

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