The Academy of Vocal Arts has named  Maestro Joseph Colaneri AVA’s new Jeannine B. Cowles Music Director Chair following the historic, legendary tenure of Music Director Emeritus Maestro Christofer Macatsoris.

In his new role, Colaneri will lead AVA’s faculty and music staff, set the tone for the education and training of our Resident Artists, and conduct our productions featuring the AVA Opera Orchestra.

In a statement Colaneri said, “It is a distinct honor for me to join the esteemed Academy of Vocal Arts as Music Director. AVA’s unparalleled mission to develop the finest operatic singing artists in the world inspires me deeply and I look forward to collaborating with all the faculty and staff in advancing AVA’s distinguished legacy as a world leader of the storied and lively traditions of the operatic art.”

Colaneri brings extensive experience to AVA as a conductor, leader, and master teacher. He led Glimmerglass Festival as Music Director since 2013 and has appeared as guest conductor in a host of productions at The Metropolitan Opera since 1998 as well as opera houses throughout the world. He has established himself as a veteran educator after two decades as Artistic Director of the opera program at the Mannes School of Music.