Editorial Note: A previous version of this article stated that George Manahan was retiring. This is incorrect. He is stepping down from his position but will continue working in different capacities. The article has been altered to reflect this.

George Manahan, the Music Director of the Portland Opera for the last nine years, has announced that he will be stepping down from his role with the company. 

Manahan made his debut at the Portland Opera in 2006, conducting Verdi’s “Macbeth” and was a regular guest artist for the company before being named Music Director in 2012. He has built up a career as  an award-winning conductor, acclaimed by Columbia University and honored by the American Society of Composers and Publishers for his advocacy of modern composers and the music of our time. He has worked with numerous orchestras and opera companies in various cities and with performances that have been televised. He has also been to many festivals.

“We are so grateful to have been molded and inspired by Maestro Manahan. His experience, excellence and dedication led the company to great artistic achievements,”  Sue Dixon, Managing Director of the Portland Opera, said in a press release. 

“The years I’ve spent with Portland Opera have been some of the most gratifying of my life,” Manahan added. “Working with this amazing chorus and wonderful orchestra has been a constant joy, as well as collaborating with the superb administration and board. I want to express my deepest gratitude to Christopher Mattaliano for inviting me to guest conduct in Portland and later appointing me Music Director. I wish everyone the best in continuing the great tradition of Portland Opera.”

A concert, “George and Friends,” featuring the Portland Opera Orchestra and Chorus will be held in his honor on May 14, 2022. 

Manahan will remain remain a close advisor for the company as it begins its search for the next Music Director.