Vancouver Opera Names New Music Director

Canadian conductor Jacques Lacombe will step into the role

Vancouver Opera recently announced that its new Music Director will be the Canadian conductor Jacques Lacombe, who will step into the position immediately.

Also the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of the Orchestre Classique de Montreal, Lacombe has previously been Music and Artistic Director of the Orchestre symphonique de Mulhouse in France from 2017 to 2021, Principal Conductor of the Bonn Opera in Germany from 2016 to 2018 and Music Director of the Orchestre symphonique de Trois-Rivières from 2006 till 2018.

A native of Québec, Lacombe received his musical training at the Conservatoire de Musique de Montréal and at the Hochschule für Musik in Vienna. He is presently the orchestral conducting teacher and orchestral director at the latter institution.

In recognition of his service to music, Lacombe has been made a Member of the Order of Canada and Knight of the Ordre National du Quebec.

"I am deeply honored to join the Vancouver Opera family," said Maestro Jacques Lacombe. "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."

"We are delighted to welcome Maestro Jacques Lacombe as our new Music Director," said Tom Wright, Vancouver Opera General Director. "The award-winning Maestro has brought nuance, power, and artistic integrity to many VO productions as a visiting conductor, so we are honored that he has accepted this key leadership role."

"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."