Allan E. Naplan Appointed as Executive Director of Arizona Musicfest

Arizona Musicfest 2013 (January 28 - March 4) presents top artists of classical, chamber, jazz, blues, country, rock n' roll and opera, such as Denyce Graves, Keb' Mo' and Parker Quartet, in exceptional programs (created especially for Arizona Musicfest) at venues throughout the scenic desert foothills of Scottsdale and Carefree. At the heart of the Festival is the 60-member Arizona Musicfest Orchestra, comprised of musicians from the nation's finest orchestras, 100-voice Arizona Musicfest Chorus, and the Arizona Musicfest Chamber Players.

Allan Naplan began his career as an opera singer and transitioned to administration as a member of the staff of Houston Grand Opera. He served as Director of Artistic Administration of Pittsburgh Opera before being appointed General Director of Madison Opera, where he transformed the company through his leadership in fundraising, audience development, and financial management as well as repertoire and productions, educational programs, and community engagement.

At Minnesota Opera, Naplan enhanced the company's community engagement and Education activities, oversaw major gift cultivation, and introduced enhancements to the company's marketing and public profile. During his time with the company, the organization produced the world premiere of the Pulitzer Prize-winning opera by Kevin Puts, Silent Night.

As a published composer, Naplan's works, which are standard repertoire for children's choirs, have been performed and recorded in over forty countries, and have been featured at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the White House, and aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia.

Allan Naplan has a Bachelor of Music Degree from Ithaca College where he majored in vocal performance and music education. He and his wife Christina Harrop have two young sons, Jonah (age 4) and Elliot (age 2).