The Canadian Opera Company (COC) has announced the appointment of Ian Derrer as its new general director, effective July 1. Derrer, previously at the helm of the Dallas Opera since 2018, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role, succeeding David C. Ferguson.
A Proven Leader in the Arts
Derrer’s career in the opera world spans various roles, including singer, stage manager, and administrator. He has previously led the Kentucky Opera for two years and held significant positions at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. His diverse background equips him with a unique understanding of the intricacies involved in running a major opera company.
Originally hailing from Illinois and raised in North Carolina, Derrer expressed enthusiasm about his transition to Canada. “It’s an opportunity that really made me pause and think outside the norm for myself,” he told The Globe. He has long admired the COC for its artistic excellence and national significance, noting that the company’s reputation was a significant draw for him.
Navigating a Changing Landscape
Derrer’s appointment comes at a time of heightened Canadian nationalism, a sentiment that has intensified in recent years. During his interview process, he engaged in “very frank discussions” about his American background and the implications it might carry. “As an outsider, I have a different perspective,” he remarked, highlighting his aim to provide a fresh vision for the COC.
Marcia Lewis Brown, the board chair of COC and head of the search committee, confirmed that the process was extensive, involving interviews with fewer than ten candidates. While the committee would have preferred a Canadian, Brown emphasised the need to prioritise the best fit for the company. “We view ourselves as an international company,” she stated, acknowledging that the ideal candidate needed to possess both musical expertise and an affinity for Canada.
Focus on Audience Development
Derrer is committed to expanding opera’s reach and making productions financially accessible. He believes that increasing audience engagement is vital to the future of the art form. “You’ve got a whole generation of people that we need to start cultivating,” he stated, highlighting the importance of appealing to diverse communities. His prior successes in the U.S. involved direct outreach to underrepresented groups through free performances and workshops, breaking down barriers to accessibility.
His dedication to education stems from his upbringing; Derrer’s mother, a teacher and amateur singer, instilled in him the belief that opera should be accessible to all. “That’s always been a part of my ethos,” he reflected, recalling his early experiences performing in schools and community centres.
A Vision for the Future
As general director, Derrer will serve as the chief executive of the COC, collaborating closely with music director Johannes Debus and artistic director Roberto Mauro. His responsibilities will encompass artistic planning, budgeting, marketing, and fostering government relations. The position carries a salary of approximately £400,000.
Derrer is particularly excited about the diverse landscape of Toronto, recognising it as a unique opportunity for engagement. “I’m so looking forward to getting started,” he concluded, eager to explore the possibilities that lie ahead for the Canadian Opera Company.
Why it Matters
Ian Derrer’s arrival at the Canadian Opera Company marks a significant moment for the institution and the broader Canadian arts scene. His commitment to audience growth and accessibility is crucial in ensuring that opera remains relevant in an increasingly competitive cultural landscape. By embracing diversity and fostering inclusive practices, Derrer has the potential to not only elevate the COC’s profile but also redefine the future of opera in Canada, making it a vibrant and integral part of the national arts dialogue.
