The Academy of Vocal Arts (AVA) has announced the appointment of Scott Guzielek as its new president and artistic director effective July 1.
Guzielek, who has been the Academy’s vice president and general manager since 2019, will take over for K. James McDowell, who is retiring from the top post from which he has served with distinction for almost four decades.
Beginning in 1986, McDowell led the organization through significant growth. An AVA alumnus himself, McDowell oversaw and led the expansion of the AVA campus now encompassing three historic buildings in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, significantly increased AVA’s scholarship endowment, established and endowed fellowships for all resident artists, and successfully sought accreditation of AVA’s curriculum with the National Association of School’s of Music.
He also produced numerous seasons of productions that showcased and developed the talents of AVA’s Resident Artists, and in recent years he also designed and stage directed several operas.
Harold F. (Rick) Pitcairn II, chairman of AVA’s board of directors, said McDowell has left an indelible impact on the organization. “It is difficult to express in words Kevin’s contributions to the AVA across the 37 years of his leadership. His positive impact on the institution over the years will remain his legacy, as will the scores of talented AVA artists who have flourished on opera stages across the world,” Pitcairn said.
“The Board has the utmost confidence in Scott to continue this legacy. His thoughtful expertise was evident over the past four years, especially during the depth of the COVID-19 crisis where his leadership was integral to the AVA continuing its mission. We are truly excited for this next chapter of the AVA under Scott’s leadership.”
As Vice President and General Manager Guzielek was responsible for the administrative management of the organization. His leadership and collaboration with McDowell through the COVID-19 pandemic allowed AVA to continue training singers through a combination of in-person and virtual voice lessons, coaching, and performances. Since his arrival, new fundraising goals have been achieved and ticket sales have increased.
“I’m honored and deeply grateful to the AVA board for this opportunity to lead this exceptional organization of such bright, talented people,” Guzielek said. “I look forward to continuing the AVA’s fine legacy of musical excellence and helping it achieve new goals in the years to come.”
Guzielek previously was the director of artistic operations of Palm Beach Opera and artistic administrator of Washington National Opera. He holds a Bachelor of Arts with honors in Vocal Performance from the State University of New York College at Geneseo and a Master of Arts with distinction in Arts Management from American University in Washington, D.C.
For information, visit www.avaopera.org.
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