Speranza Scappucci ⁦is set to become the principal guest conductor at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden ⁦in 2025.

The Italian conductor will be the first principal guest conductor in over a quarter of a century. Scappucci will assume the role in September 2025, when the Royal Opera House’s incoming music director, the Czech conductor Jakub Hrůša, will also start in his new position.

The conductor will also be the first woman to hold the role and will work on a wide range of traditional repertoire, including bel canto and works by Puccini and Verdi.

In a statement to the Guardian Hrůša said, “She is an energizing presence on the podium, inspiring the musicians and indeed everyone around her through her splendid passion, warmth, skill, and knowledge. I’m delighted that she will be a part of the team for the artistic work that lies ahead to fulfill the Royal Opera’s future dreams and visions.”

Scapucci has conducted at the Metropolitan Opera, Wiener Staatsoper, Opera Royal de Wallonie, Teatro alla Scala, and Scottish Opera.