NORFOLK, Va. – Virginia Opera, The Official Opera Company of the Commonwealth of Virginia, has named its former Artistic Director, Peter Mark, Artistic Director Emeritus of the company. Mr. Mark served as Artistic Director, Music Director and Principal Conductor of Virginia Opera from 1975, shortly following Virginia Opera’s founding, until November 2010. He also served as the Opera’s first General Director from 1975 until 2000.
Mr. Mark expressed his appreciation for this recognition. He said: “I have great respect for Virginia Opera and its many talented artists, administrators and volunteers, with whom I have worked so closely over thirty-five years. Together we created a world-class company which brought opera productions of the highest caliber to audiences in Virginia and beyond. It is my hope that Virginia Opera will thrive for many years to come.”
Russell P. Allen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Virginia Opera, said that “Virginia Opera is pleased that Maestro Mark has accepted this honor. His appointment as Artistic Director Emeritus appropriately recognizes his decades of distinguished service to Virginia Opera and its audiences, and acknowledges the many singers he identified, trained and presented who continued on to accomplished operatic careers.”
Mr. Mark’s appointment is effective immediately. Mr. Mark and Mr. Allen confirm that this appointment is part of an amicable resolution of differences between Mr. Mark and Virginia Opera.