"On Friday, conductor Cal Stewart Kellogg led an alert, musically eloquent pit." -Arizona Daily Star review of Andrea Chenier

"The Arizona Opera Orchestra under [guest] conductor Steven White achieved a light and dainty touch coupled with a subtle firmness, all of which defines Viennese operetta." -Tucson Citizen review of The Merry Widow

In 2000, Arizona Opera appointed its first Principal Conductor, Maestro Cal Stewart Kellogg, and the largest and most professional group of musicians in the organization's history.

The interpretation of opera - a labor of love - has always been the primary focus of this talented group of instrumentalists. The players' experience and enthusiasm allows for them the rare ability to accompany the singers on stage, or take the musical spotlight on their own in this very specific art form.

The orchestra takes great pride in the collective accomplishments and artistry of its individual players. Outside of the pit, the musicians teach at the three state universities as well as the many community colleges and schools in Arizona. They perform in musical theater, concerts, recitals and festivals in Europe and North and South America both as soloists and in chamber music.

The Arizona Opera Chorus

Arizona Opera's core group of singers, the chorus, is led by Chorus Director Julian Reed. This dedicated, diverse group of professional Arizona-based singers takes Arizona Opera productions to the next level. Whether terrifying onstage as an angry mob in Dialogues of the Carmelites or utterly enchanting offstage with Madama Butterfly's "Humming Chorus," the Arizona Opera Chorus simply shines.