Domingo Hindoyan to Start as L.A. Opera Music Director

The conductor begins his five-year tenure with a production of Carmen this month at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Opera

Domingo Hindoyan to Start as L.A. Opera Music Director

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Domingo Hindoyan will officially begin his role as music director of the Los Angeles Opera on October 17, 2026. The 46-year-old conductor takes the reins as the company celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Why it matters

Hindoyan succeeds long-time music director James Conlon, who served for 20 years. His arrival signals a new era for the company, with plans to bridge traditional opera with Hollywood collaborations.

Hindoyan signed a five-year contract to lead the Los Angeles Opera. He previously led the Liverpool Philharmonic starting in 2021.

The players

Domingo Hindoyan

He is the incoming music director of the Los Angeles Opera who began studying violin at age five.

James Conlon

He is the former music director who led the Los Angeles Opera for 20 years before his retirement.

Los Angeles Opera

This is a performing arts organization currently celebrating its 40th anniversary.

The details

The appointment follows an invitation to conduct Romeo & Juliet last year, which served as an audition for the company. Hindoyan, who currently resides in Switzerland, intends to stage concert versions of rare works and collaborate with Hollywood movie directors.

1965: Hindoyan saw Zubin Mehta conduct the Sibelius concerto.
2005: Hindoyan auditioned for the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra.
2016: L.A. Opera president saw Hindoyan conduct in Berlin.
2021: Hindoyan began leading the Liverpool Philharmonic.
October 17, 2026: Hindoyan begins his tenure with Carmen.

Industry Dynamics

The transition follows the 20-year tenure of James Conlon, establishing a new leadership era for the institution. This change reflects a broader shift among major opera houses as they seek new directors to modernize programming and attract new audiences.

Patrons can expect the new music director to introduce concert versions of rare works alongside traditional productions at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Ticket holders should anticipate potential changes in repertoire and artistic collaborations during the five-year term.

The takeaway

Hindoyan brings a fresh vision to the Los Angeles Opera by proposing partnerships with Hollywood directors. Audiences can look forward to a blend of traditional classics and rare, experimental concert works throughout his tenure.