NEWS RELEASE: AUGUST 20, 2007
BERKSHIRE OPERA www.berkshireopera.org
The Berkshire Opera Company Names Ryan Taylor as its New General Director. Appointment Brings Solid Business Acumen and Fresh Creative Vision to the Helm of the Company
Pittsfield, MA (August 20, 2007) - The Berkshire Opera Company Board of Directors and the Executive Search Committee are pleased to announce the selection of Ryan Taylor as the Company’s new general director. After a 9-month search process, Mr. Taylor ‘s stellar professional credentials made him the clear choice to lead the Company into its 2009 25th anniversary season and beyond. Mr. Taylor has served as the co-founder and general director of the Southeastern Festival of Song (SEFoS) since 2003 and has toured the world as an acclaimed vocalist with over thirty lead roles to his credit. In his role as general director, Mr. Taylor is charged with broadening the reach of Berkshire Opera to highlight the company’s engaging artistic programming and promote its accessibility for general music lovers and opera enthusiasts alike. Together with music director Kathleen Kelly, Mr. Taylor will collaborate in the development of the company’s artistic roadmap. He will also oversee all aspects of day-to-day company operations including educational outreach initiatives, budgeting, marketing and public relations. Finally, Mr. Taylor will focus on cultivating increased visibility for and financial support of the Company through both corporate and individual donors as well as increased giving from public and private foundations.
“We at Berkshire Opera Company are delighted to have such a talented artist and skilled business manager joining us to lead Berkshire Opera into its Silver Anniversary Year,” said Norman Michaels, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “I know Ryan both as a fellow artist and as the astute director of SEFoS. I’ve enjoyed collaborating with him as a singer and benefited from his skilled management of the festival. Berkshire Opera is lucky to have him and I look forward to his fresh ideas and strong leadership as we move ahead,” said Kathleen Kelly, musical director.
Mr. Taylor will officially assume leadership on October 2, 2007.