Houston Grand Opera (HGO) has announced John Churchwell as the company’s new Head of Music Staff.

Churchwell was recruited to a key artistic leadership position as part of its continued commitment to the highest standards of music-making.

In a statement, HGO General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor said, “As HGO continues to grow artistically, we are bringing together exceptional leaders who share ourambition to take this company to even greater musical heights,”“Whether at the piano, bringing his perspective as an accomplished arts leader, or offering incisive, thoughtful mentorship to young artists, John Churchwell has distinguished himself as one of the most gifted and respected colleagues in our field. We are thrilled that he will be helping to guide HGO’s musical future.”

Churchwell added, “I’m honored to be joining HGO at such an exciting moment in the company’s history. Across the field, we have watched HGO continue to evolve and innovate—reaching new audiences, investing in exceptional artists, and pursuing an ambitious artistic vision. There is a tremendous sense of possibility in Houston, and the opportunity to contribute to this company’s future is incredibly meaningful to me. I’m eager to work alongside Khori Dastoor, James Gaffigan, and the entire HGO team, and to bring everything I have to the work ahead.”

Churchwell has built a career at the highest levels of American opera following positions at the San Francisco Opera, where he served as Head of Music Staff for 14 years. Concurrent to his new position in Houston, he will continue to serve as Co-Director for the Lehrer Vocal Institute at Santa Barbara’s Music Academy of the West.

He is also an acclaimed pianist and sought-after recital partner, who has performed with Renée Fleming, Joyce DiDonato, Lawrence Brownlee, Sasha Cooke, and Isabel Leonard.

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