Opera Australia has announced the appointment of in-demand Italian conductor and composer Maestro Andrea Battistoni as the company’s new Music Director, commencing in January 2026.

In a statement, Outgoing OA Chair Rod Sims said, “Andrea’s combination of youth, artistry, and international experience has established him as a hugely respected conductor globally. His highly anticipated appointment will be invaluable to OA’s continuing evolution and commitment to innovation and artistic excellence.”

Battistoni has performed at the Royal Opera House, Deutsche Oper in Berlin, Palau del Les Arts in Valencia, Royal Opera House in Stockholm, Teatro Carlo Felice in Genoa, and the Sydney Opera House. Basttisoni first gained attention at the Verdi Festival in 2010 and became the youngest conductor to perform at the Teatro alla Scala in Milan in 2012 at only 24 years of age. He was the first guest conductor at the Teatro Carlo Felice in Genoa, and since 2016 he has held the position of principal conductor at the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra.

In a statement Battistoni said, “I’m looking forward to returning to Australia and reuniting with colleagues with whom I shared deep musical communication and understanding. The extraordinary dedication of the music staff, the chorus, the orchestra and the soloists, they are constantly challenging themselves to create unforgettable performances. While recognising the value and strength of the Italian repertoire, which will continue to be an essential component, I propose an expansion into other musical cultures. We will aim to offer new stimuli to the audience, the orchestra and the chorus, allowing them to explore different musical languages, from Wagner to Britten, from the French masterpieces to new contemporary works. It’s also important OA maintains its status as an international house of excellence reaching for new horizons. I’ll be nurturing local talent as well as attracting international singers and directors with whom to share important projects. Innovating the repertoire, optimising production, promoting excellence and cultivating emerging talent will all be pillars of my activity at OA.”

Battistoni’s appointment comes at a time of strengthened leadership at OA with the announcement of Professor Glyn Davis AC commencing as Chair and Alex Budd as the Company’s new CEO starting in November 2025.

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