Gustavo Dudamel has announced his resignation as music director of the Paris Opera, effective at the close of the current 2022/23 season. He explained that his decision stems from a wish to spend more quality time with his family.
“It has been a privilege to share moments of exceptional music and collaboration,” commented the Venezuelan conductor in a formal Paris Opera statement, reflecting on his two seasons of work with the company’s artists. He emphasized that his focus now is simply to be present for loved ones and to continue growing as a musician and leader.
He added, “I am not pursuing other projects right now; my only aim is to support my family and honor this personal commitment.”
Alexander Neef, the general manager of the Paris Opera, conveyed his deep gratitude for Dudamel’s leadership. He praised the conductor as a great artist whose passion and extraordinary talent enriched the institution and inspired colleagues and audiences alike.
at the season’s end
Neef affirmed that the decision will be respected in full and that Dudamel will officially step away once the season finishes, with the formal departure aligning with the end of June.
The Paris Opera indicated that it will provide later details about who will assume the role of music director for the orchestra, and who will lead the company’s concerts, operas, and ballets in the 2023/24 season, which is scheduled to begin in September.
The acclaimed Venezuelan conductor was introduced as director of the Paris Opera in April 2021, with his tenure commencing in August of that same year. By the conclusion of his term, he will have steered the organization through two major seasons, shaping a distinct era for the company and its artistic offerings.