Meet Houston Grand Opera’s Next Music Director

Today, HGO shared some important company news: internationally celebrated conductor James Gaffigan is set to become our fifth Music Director since 1955. It’s a major moment for HGO, and a coup for this company. Gaffigan—“today’s leading American conductor,” according to HGO General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor—is in high demand in both Europe and the United States.

“To welcome James Gaffigan back to Houston, and to HGO, as our new Music Director represents the fulfillment of an ambitious dream,” Dastoor said today in an announcement. “James was steeped in the art and culture of Houston on his way to finding phenomenal international success. His return is both a testament to our city and a reflection of HGO’s ascendance as a force in the global opera industry.”

Gaffigan is originally from New York but has made his career in Europe, holding his current position, as the General Music Director of Komische Oper Berlin, since 2023. Houston, and HGO, hold special significance to him, as he studied conducting under Larry Rachleff at the Shepherd School at Rice University; fell in love with opera after seeing Rigoletto at HGO; and in 2011, made his American operatic debut here conducting The Marriage of Figaro.

“I always knew that the first post I would take in the United States as Music Director had to be the perfect fit,” said Gaffigan. “As I considered which institution, which city, and which community aligned with my dreams and goals for an American institution, I found HGO to be my ideal partner. In my opinion, HGO is the most exciting opera company in the United States. Under Khori Dastoor’s leadership, the company has flourished, and it has become clear to me that the sky is the limit.”

HGO launched an international search for its next Music Director in fall 2024, after the company’s longtime Artistic and Music Director, Patrick Summers, announced that he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the 2025-26 season. Starting next season, Summers will assume the role of Music Director Emeritus and holder of the Robert and Jane Cizik Music Director Emeritus Chair.

Beginning his term as HGO’s Music Director Designate in the 2026-27 season, Gaffigan will assume the role of Music Director in the 2027-28 season.

Read the full announcement here.