Stephen Lord – Maestro Extraordinaire of Opera Conducting

Stephen Lord

Conductor

Stephen Lord, a highly acclaimed conductor and music director, has dedicated over four decades to the world of opera. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of music and a passion for sharing his knowledge, Stephen has left an indelible mark on the opera community. After a brief hiatus, he returns to the field that has fuelled his spirit, ready to continue his artistic journey.

Photo By: Christian Steiner

Early Career and Musical Influence:

Stephen’s career commenced in 1975 as a coach/accompanist at the Michigan Opera Theater. His exceptional skills quickly led him to engagements at renowned institutions such as Opera/Omaha, Wolf Trap Opera, and the Houston Grand Opera. Collaborating with celebrated singers including Renata Scotto and Neil Shicoff, Stephen traveled the world, leaving an impact on both the artists and the audiences.

Artistic Home at Opera Theatre of Saint Louis:

In 1980, Stephen became associated with the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL), initially as the Head of Music Staff and Casting Advisor. Over time, his role expanded, and he eventually took on the position of Music Director in 1992. Under his leadership, OTSL flourished, with Stephen working closely with Richard Gaddes, Colin Graham, and Charles MacKay to curate exceptional seasons and discover emerging talent.

Conducting Prowess and Acclaim:

Stephen’s conducting prowess extends to leading opera companies and orchestras worldwide. His guest appearances include the Canadian Opera Company, San Francisco Opera, Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Santa Fe Opera, and English National Opera, among others. Critics consistently praise his ability to strike a perfect balance between the singers and the orchestra, while infusing passion and authenticity into every performance.

Advocacy for Young Artists and Education:

Deeply committed to nurturing young talent, Stephen established the Gerdine Young Artists program at OTSL, providing opportunities to diverse voices and underrepresented artists. This initiative has given rise to remarkable talents like Lawrence Brownlee, Morris Robinson, Christine Goerke, and Jamie Barton. Additionally, Stephen’s contributions to music education include teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as The Saint Louis Conservatory, The Banff Festival Opera, and the New England Conservatory.

Legacy and Philanthropy:

As a testament to his extraordinary contributions, a fund called The Stephen H Lord Fund for Music was established, dedicated to the development of coaches, conductors, chorus masters, and other vital roles in the opera industry. Furthermore, Stephen was honored as Music Director Emeritus for Life, solidifying his lasting impact on OTSL and the wider opera community.

Critical Acclaim and Media Recognition:

Stephen Lord’s achievements have garnered widespread recognition from critics and media outlets. His interpretations of diverse operatic scores have been praised for their depth and emotional resonance. The Wall Street Journal hailed his ability to unify disparate elements in productions, while The New York Times applauded his brio and musical theater sensibilities. These accolades attest to his exceptional artistry and profound understanding of vocal scores.

Conclusion:

Stephen Lord’s illustrious career as a conductor and music director has spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the opera world.