Anne Manson

Anne Manson is recognized throughout the world for her conducting achievements. She was the first woman to conduct at the Salzburg Festival, where she led the Vienna Philharmonic and a cast that included Samuel Ramey and Philip Langridge in a production of Boris Godunov which met with great critical acclaim. Ms. Manson is one of only three women to have been appointed Music Director of a leading American symphony orchestra, having served as Music Director of the Kansas City Symphony from 1999 to 2003. She launched her career in 1988 as Music Director of the London-based Mecklenburgh Opera, where over a span of eight years she programmed operas ranging from Mozart to 20th-century rarities, while commissioning world premieres from a host of contemporary composers.  

Anne Manson is distinguished by her dynamic podium presence, stylistic versatility, and ability to draw audiences into the inner world of the composer.  A reputation for excellence in the central German repertory, combined with a passionate advocacy of music of the present, has led to invitations leading orchestras worldwide.  Ms. Manson's opera repertoire ranges from the 17th to the 21st century.