TDO’s Hart Institute, launched in 2015, is the only program of its kind in the world and seeks to address the extreme gender imbalance of leadership on the podium in opera companies. More than 500 women conductors from 40 nations have applied to be trained, advised, and supported by this extraordinary initiative.

This groundbreaking institute, which has changed the face of classical music by significantly advancing the careers of women in the most visible position in the orchestra, will take place via a hybrid residency with virtual sessions in November 18–22, 2024 and in-person sessions January 17–25, 2025.

2024/2025 Hart Institute for Women Conductors Showcase Concert

During an intensive 9-day residency in Dallas (January 17–25, 2025), participants will work with esteemed faculty and mentors in group and one-on-one sessions, as well as in rehearsals for the annual Showcase Concert on Sunday, January 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The performance features each Institute conductor leading the Dallas Opera Orchestra and guest singers in selections of opera excerpts featuring overtures, solo arias, and ensemble pieces from across the centuries of the canon.

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Applications will be open until May 31, 2024 at 11:59pm CDT.

2024/2025 Hart Institute Virtual Sessions

The annual Institute begins November 18–22 with a week of daily virtual sessions, many of which are livestreamed and open for the public to view at no cost on The Dallas Opera’s YouTube channel or digital.dallasopera.org. These details will be coming soon. Bookmark your calendar for this incredible opportunity to join sessions hosted by leading professionals in the arts industry.

About the Program

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The world’s first program designed to meet the needs of women opera conductors, the prestigious Hart Institute provides conducting opportunities with The Dallas Opera Orchestra and masterclasses with the internationally-acclaimed music director of The Dallas Opera, Emmanuel Villaume, and TDO’s Principal Guest Conductor, Nicole Paiement (the music director of San Francisco’s award-winning Opera Parallèle). The Hart Institute presents seminars and one-on-ones with prominent leaders in classical music and opera. Topics include selecting the right artist manager, best practices in working with executive recruiters, opera management and fundraising, personal branding, media management, and more.

At the end of the program, each conductor will have access to a high-resolution video that shows each participant conducting full-length overtures, arias, and ensembles with The Dallas Opera Orchestra.