Robert Ashens’ confident and sensitive conducting continues to garner critical praise for his interpretations of nearly 100 operas. Appointed in August to the position in Eugene, he has been a multi-faceted leader in music, most notably in the Northeast United States, which has served as his home base for almost forty years. He comes to Eugene with a varied packet of credentials: Previous Post: 12 years conducting Connecticut Opera and directing its education wing, Opera Express. As conductor-director: Music director, Trinity Episcopal Church in Hartford; Opera Theater of Connecticut; Theatre Guild of Simsbury; New Britain Opera; Connecticut Center for Bel Canto Opera; and Trouper’s Light Opera of Stamford. As an instructor: University of Connecticut, Gordon College, New England Contemporary Institute of Arts and the Hartt School. As musical theater conductor: International touring production, A Chorus Line national touring production, Jesus Christ Superstar; and Piaf: La Vie, L’Amour, Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival. As judge: Metropolitan Opera Regionals; Connecticut Opera; vocal auditions, Gianna D’Angleo, Jenny Lind and Music Teachers National Conference. As accompanist: For Lucine Amara, Mary Dunleavy, Mignon Dunn, Richard Fredricks, Gary Karr, James King, Gervase de Peyer, Paul Plishka, Ruggiero Ricci, Maryanne Telese and Eduardo Villa. Maestro Ashens has been recognized in Young Men of America, and both Who’s Who in American and International Music. He is in continual demand as a lecturer in music and opera and is noted for his witty and engaging style.