In a community the size of San Diego, a vibrant arts community requires a lot of collaboration. The owners of two of SD’s biggest arts footprints have announced that they’ll not only join forces, but overlap their staffing with an unusual shared position: one candidate is sought to fill two part-time positions as university faculty and opera director.
It’s not just about sharing expenses, of course: this arrangement will undoubtedly strengthen the relationship between the two institutions, expanding the opera company’s reach and recruitment potential, and bringing vital learning opportunities to opera students at SDSU. Now it’s just a matter of finding the right person for the job… High hopes!
Press release follows.
San Diego Opera and San Diego State University School of Music and Dance Announce Shared Position
TIMELINE — January 10, 2018
“Director of Opera” at SDSU will be supported by work at San Diego Opera to create a full-time position shared by both institutions
San Diego, CA – San Diego Opera and the SDSU School of Music and Dance have announced a new, shared position between the two organizations. The “Director of Opera” is a full-time, faculty position that will direct SDSU Opera’s Fall production, teach acting and stage movement for singers, and then act as assistant director on San Diego Opera’s mainstage productions in the Spring.
Creating a full-time position shared between these two organizations will attract high level talent and enhance the quality of opera instruction in the region.
This partnership further develops San Diego Opera’s relationship with SDSU, as a number of students in the school’s opera program are members of the Company’s Opera Exposed program; an intensive training program for outstanding college and young professional singers, with performances throughout the San Diego community.
“Our research indicates that this is the first time in the CSU that an academic institution has partnered with a professional arts organization to serve the public good by providing a direct channel ensuring the longevity of the art form of Opera,” said Joyce Gattas, Dean of the SDSU College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts.
“I’m thrilled about the new Director of Opera position, which brings together the strengths of San Diego Opera and San Diego State University,” shares San Diego Opera General Director, David Bennett. “The successful candidate will bring their considerable artistic skills to both institutions, and foster a collaborative relationship that I know will strengthen and grow in the future.”
SDSU and San Diego Opera are currently conducting a search for this position which will start in the summer of 2018. For more information visit: https://music.sdsu.edu/index.php/people/jobs – music_opera
About SDSU’s School of Music and Dance
The School of Music and Dance provides specialized instruction and career development opportunities for students by creating a dynamic artistic environment based on the unique strengths and knowledge of our accomplished faculty. We emphasize high quality performance experiences for students, professional engagement, and applied practical training in music and dance. Each student’s career aspirations are advanced under the supervision of a supportive and skilled faculty.
About San Diego Opera
The mission of San Diego Opera is to deliver exceptional vocal performances and exciting, accessible programs to diverse audiences, focusing on community engagement and the transformative power of live performance.
San Diego Opera Vision Statement
The San Diego Opera will be recognized internationally as a leading example of adaptability, innovation and sustainability in the operatic arts, promoting diversified programming and unique performance venues with world-class and emerging talent.
San Diego Opera Core Values Statement
Through excellence in innovative programming and education, SDO provides a lasting cultural service to the community.
- Our tradition of excellence in fully staged opera is augmented with new models of opera and venues. Our unique and deep commitment to the community propels us to explore ways of increasing affordability and accessibility.
- Through fiscal responsibility and nimble adaptation to the changing marketplace, we protect the future of San Diego Opera.
- Our educational and community involvement coupled with relevant programming will build the audience of the future.
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