Calgary Opera has announced that Jonathan Brandani will become the company’s new Artistic Director.

Brandani conducted Calgary Opera’s box office record-shattering 2019 production of Puccini’s “La Bohème” and is passionate about youth education and expanding the inclusiveness of opera. Brandani will work on Calgary Opera’s community initiatives, programming the upcoming 2022-2023 50th Anniversary season, and leading the company’s return to live performances in 2022.

In a statement, Brandani said, “My wife and I are looking forward to putting down roots in Calgary and enrolling our children in school here. We are also excited to spend time in the mountains exploring the natural beauty of this part of the world. This city is very special and has a lot to offer us as a family. Personally, I am looking forward to participating in, and contributing to, Calgary Opera’s continued success. For Calgary Opera’s 50th Anniversary we will showcase that opera is for everyone and do this by extending music into the local communities, engaging in important conversations, and ensuring the stories and the people on stage accurately reflect the diverse people in our community.”

Brandani has performed around the world in Ireland, Austria, the United States, Spain, Germany, and South Korea. He received an honors degree in Orchestra Conducting from the Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst in Vienna and holds a Master of Music in Orchestra Conducting from Yale University. He is also a laureate of the Merola Opera Program of San Francisco Opera.