The Santa Fe Opera has released a report for its 65th Festival Season.

The festival, which closed on August 27, noted that it presented 38 mainstage performances and two special evenings of Apprentice Scenes featuring the talented singing and technical apprentices.

In a statement, General Director Robert K. Meya said, “The 2022 Season goes down in history for many reasons. The challenges we faced this year were unprecedented – beginning with the early threat of wildfire smoke, the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, the lift failure affecting the July 6 and 8 performances of ‘The Barber of Seville’ and ‘Carmen,’ and the challenging repertory. Yet, the artistic quality has never been higher – and the critical response to all five shows has been overwhelmingly positive. Many patrons have commented to me that this is the best season they have ever experienced at the Santa Fe Opera.”

The company confirmed that it is the second-best year of ticket sales in history, closing the season at $9.5 million and fundraising of $9.7 million.

The season was also critically reviewed by over 25 publications and garnered local, regional, national, and international coverage. In addition, the company announced that the Santa Fe Opera Orchestra in the 2023 Season will have two new players in the positions of Principal Trumpet and Principal Bass.

The appointments are the result of highly competitive national auditions which occurred in August. Santa Fe Opera Music Director Harry Bicket wrote, “I am thrilled that Ian and William are joining this wonderful orchestra; they are both phenomenal players and musicians and will be huge assets to us as we continue to strive for the excellence for which the Santa Fe Opera is celebrated.”

The new players are Principal Trumpet William Leathers and Principal Bass Ian Hallas.