Vancouver Opera has announced Maestro Jacques Lacombe as its new Music Director.

In a statement, Lacombe said, “I am deeply honored to join the Vancouver Opera family. Vancouver Opera has a rich tradition of artistic excellence and their work continues to push the envelope of opera each season. I am excited to collaborate with this outstanding team to create unforgettable experiences for our audiences and to continue elevating extraordinary talent. Together, we will push the boundaries of opera, embrace diversity, and bring the magic of music to the heart of British Columbia.”

In his new position, Lacombe will be to participate in the audition process for the 2024-2025 season. He will also lead the musical direction of upcoming productions.

Lacombe is a Member of the Order of Canada and Knight of the Ordre National du Quebec and has conducted at the Bonn Opera, Deutsche Oper in Berlin, Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich, Germany, Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London, Festival Internacional de Opera Alejandro Granda in Lima, Peru and Metropolitan Opera House in New York.

Tom Wright, Vancouver Opera General Director said, “We are delighted to welcome Maestro Jacques Lacombe as our new Music Director. The award-winning Maestro has brought nuance, power, and artistic integrity to many VO productions as a visiting conductor, so we are honoured that he has accepted this key leadership role. Jacques has built strong relationships with the dedicated singers, musicians, and administrators at VO over his more than two-decade association with the company, from 2003’s ‘La Fanciulla del West’ to the complex and ethereal ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ enjoyed by audiences this past season. This appointment reaffirms our commitment to delivering world-class opera to our audiences, and we are thrilled that Maestro Lacombe will continue to ensure that musical excellence remains at the forefront of Vancouver Opera.”

The Vancouver Opera also announced that Vancouver Opera Music Director Emeritus Jonathan Darlington will continue to work with the company providing artistic contribution and continuing to share his dedication to Vancouver Opera.