Houston Grand Opera has appointed Maureen Zoltek to the position of Music Director of the HGO Studio.

In this new role, which she will take on starting in September, Zoltek will work with HGO Studio Director Brian Speck to support the young artists as well as support the company’s casting committee and work on programming for its recital series.

“Our young artist program is known for being one of the most distinguished in the world, and it will continue to grow with talent like Maureen joining the team,” said Houston Grand Opera General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor in an official press statement. “Her knowledge of the established repertoire, devotion to new works, impeccable record of accomplishment in supporting emerging and early career artists, and passion for music-making at the highest level will be a tremendous asset to HGO in the years ahead.”

Zoltek is currently at the San Francisco Opera, working as assistant conductor, vocal coach, and orchestral keyboardist. She has also collaborated with the Music Academy of the West and has championed new operas by such composers as Mark Adamo, John Adams, and Bright Sheng. She received a Doctorate of Musical Arts at Manhattan School of Music and has a master’s in piano performance from Roosevelt University.

“I am inspired by the HGO Studio’s legacy of excellence, and am privileged to now be a part of its leadership,” Zoltek added in the press statement. “I look forward to working with and nurturing the exceptional talents of the Studio Artists, and to giving them my unwavering, enthusiastic support and guidance as they navigate a career in this most incredible art form.”