I am proud to announce the appointment of Johannes Debus as the COC’s new Music Director. Johannes made a remarkable debut with the COC last fall conducting War and Peace and we are extremely pleased that he has agreed to be the musical leader of the company for the next four years.

Finding a music director has been my priority from the moment I was appointed General Director as the company with its orchestra and chorus of such a high calibre had been without a musical leader for over a year. Originally, I had anticipated that our search would at least take two or three years, but as I watched Johannes throughout the rehearsals and performances of War and Peace I realized that we not only had a very gifted conductor here, but one who had truly exceptional chemistry with the performers and our production staff. His experience and talent matched my imaginary “perfect” candidate and his connection to the company was so strong that I decided not to wait.

Johannes starts as the COC’s Music Director next season by conducting a 60th anniversary concert with Ben Heppner and our production of The Flying Dutchman, and his commitment increases in following seasons. Johannes’ talent is prodigious and his enthusiasm for this company is enormous. I know we will make him feel very welcome. I look forward to a wonderful collaboration with him as we work towards the future of the Canadian Opera Company!