Houston Grand Opera has announced the appointment of American conductor James Gaffigan as the fifth Music Director in the company’s 70-year history. Beginning his term as Music Director Designate in 2026, Gaffigan will assume the role of Music Director in the 2027–28 season on an initial contract for five seasons.
Gaffigan has served as the General Music Director of Komische Oper Berlin since 2023. In August 2025, he completed his final season as Music Director of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía in Valencia, Spain. This appointment marks his first Music Director title with an American institution.
Originally from New York, Gaffigan holds close ties to Houston, having earned his master’s degree from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. He made his HGO debut in 2011 with the company’s production of The Marriage of Figaro.
“To welcome James Gaffigan back to Houston, and to HGO, as our new Music Director represents the fulfilment of an ambitious dream,” said General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor. “I am overjoyed that today’s leading American conductor has chosen to invest fully in this company.”
HGO launched an international search for its next Music Director in autumn 2024, after Patrick Summers, the company’s longtime Artistic and Music Director (1998–2026), announced that he would be stepping down from his role at the end of this current season. Summers will assume the position of HGO’s Music Director Emeritus and holder of the Robert and Jane Cizik Music Director Emeritus Chair in 2026–27.
“I always knew that the first post I would take in the United States as Music Director had to be the perfect fit,” said James Gaffigan. “All the boxes needed to be ticked. As I considered which institution, which city, and which community aligned with my dreams and goals for an American institution, I found HGO to be my ideal partner. In my opinion, HGO is the most exciting opera company in the United States. It is rare to find such a healthy institution, with tremendous potential, and a solid foundation on which to build. I can’t wait to return to this city and start our thrilling new chapter together.”
