From the Conductor’s Podium of the New Works Collective

It has been an absolute pleasure and rewarding experience to be part of OTSL’s New Works Collective (NWC). I have had the privilege of witnessing the development of this unique commissioning project since day one and how it is making such a big impact, at all levels, in the world of new opera. Our mission has been to amplify the recognition of new voices and stories that clearly resonate with our times and cultural diversity.

Nothing is more inspiring than bringing an opera to life for the first time and to have its creators right next to you! Unfortunately, I have never met Mozart or Da Ponte, but luckily, as a collective member and conductor for three cycles of the NWC, it has been a true joy to collaborate so closely with all its creators, in every aspect of their touching stories. 

In the NWC, we have created what I love to describe as a “musical laboratory,” an open and safe space to create, experiment, develop, and finally enjoy the success of the world premieres we present to you. 

The brilliant teams we have this year present three different and captivating stories from diverse backgrounds: Black Coffee, Family Style, and Kandake. We are proud to say that the future of American opera is at the heart of all of them. The NWC continues to open a new path of integration in the musical world, which is much needed nowadays.