London's Royal Academy of Music Appoints New Head of Opera

Dr. Christopher White will take up the role, following seven years as Head of Music at Deutsche Oper Berlin

London's Royal Academy of Music (RAM) has appointed Dr Christopher White to be its new Head of Opera, beginning in September 2024. White comes to the role from a position as Head of Music at Deutsche Oper Berlin, one of Europe's busiest and most prestigious houses.

During his time in Berlin, White worked with some of the world's most prominent conductors of opera, including Edward Gardner, Jakub Hrůša, Marek Janowski, Vladimir Jurowski, Sir Simon Rattle, Sir Donald Runnicles, and Franz Welser-Möst.

In the earlier part of his career, White was a repetiteur, coach, assistant conductor, and language coach at the Royal Opera, English National Opera, Glyndebourne, Bavarian State Opera, Opernhaus Zürich, and Israeli Opera.

"I’m delighted that Christopher will be continuing the outstanding work of Brenda Hurley," said Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, the Principal of the Royal Academy. "Christopher is a hugely capable and wide-ranging musician who will bring exceptional qualities to this important role."

"Apart from his credentials as an inspiring coach and leader, his knowledge of the international opera scene will be invaluable for our students and provide added ballast to Brenda’s next role as Visiting Professor, helping shape the Academy’s work into our third century."

"Having recently 'come home' to the Royal Academy of Music after building my career internationally, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead Royal Academy Opera in its mission to provide world-class training for young singers at the outset of their careers," White said.

"I took my first steps as an opera musician with Royal Academy Opera, and I know first-hand how much the institution has to offer its young artists. As such, I am honoured to have been given the chance to continue and build upon that work. I look forward to bringing my experience of the European opera scene to bear as we seek to provide a platform for the best young singers to fulfil their potential."