Craig Kier Takes the Helm of UMD's Maryland Opera Studio

The UMD School of Music is pleased to announce that Craig Kier, the former Associate Conductor and Assistant Chorus Master with the Houston Grand Opera (HGO), has been appointed Director of the Maryland Opera Studio (MOS). He will join the faculty in Fall of 2014.

Kier has continued his relationship with the HGO as a guest conductor and is a guest faculty member of the esteemed Houston Grand Opera Studio. His 2013-2014 season included conducting engagements with Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Houston Ballet, and Central City opera.

Prior to joining Houston Grand Opera, Mr. Kier spent six seasons as Resident Assistant Conductor and Principal Coach/Accompanist for The Atlanta Opera. He began his career as part of Seattle Opera’s music staff, serving in a variety of roles including assistant conductor, coach/accompanist, and chorus master.

“Craig Kier’s professional work in the opera world provides an ideal combination of skills and experience to lead our program,” said Robert Gibson, Director of the School of Music. “His vision is strongly aligned with the teaching philosophy and values that have made The Maryland Opera Studio one of the nation’s most respected programs for training young opera singers.”