Pittsburgh Opera Appoints William Powers as New General Director

Pittsburgh Opera has appointed William Powers as its new General Director, effective July 1, 2026. He will take over from Christopher Hahn, who has held the position since 2008 and is set to retire at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. Hahn is noted for being the second-longest tenured General Director in the company’s history.

Powers brings more than three decades of experience in artistic administration to his new role. Since 2021, he has served as the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra (PYSO). His long-standing connection with Pittsburgh Opera began 14 years ago, where he initially took on the role of Director of Artistic Administration, later advancing to positions including Director of Administration and Artistic Operations, and ultimately Managing Director.

His extensive background also includes significant roles at prestigious institutions such as The Juilliard School and The Metropolitan Opera. At the Metropolitan, he contributed to the Artistic Department and was involved in the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. Additionally, he has served as General Director of the Berkshire Opera Company and has held seasonal positions with the Aspen Music Festival and the Music Academy of the West.

Upon his appointment, Powers expressed his enthusiasm for the position, stating, “I am both excited and humbled. Pittsburgh Opera has a long, distinguished lineage of General Directors. This company has accomplished great things in its first 87 seasons. I look forward to building on this legacy of artistic excellence, while helping ensure Pittsburgh Opera’s continued long-term fiscal stability.”

The Board of Directors at Pittsburgh Opera has voiced their confidence in Powers’ capabilities. Gene, the Board President, remarked, “Bill is uniquely qualified to lead Pittsburgh Opera into the future. He is intimately familiar with our company, our city, and our patrons, and has demonstrated the ability to successfully helm performing arts organizations.”

In addition, Michele Fabrizi, Board Chair, noted, “In many ways, Bill has been preparing for this role for decades. He arrives with instant credibility and goodwill both internally and externally.”

Powers’ appointment marks a new chapter for Pittsburgh Opera, which has a rich history and a commitment to artistic excellence. As he prepares to step into his new role, the organization anticipates a period of growth and stability under his leadership.