East Studio Building, JS428
Biography
Charles Prestinari previously served as chorus master and music administrator of the San Diego Opera, a position he held since 2011. From 2004 to 2011, he was associated with New York City Opera—first as assistant chorus master, and from 2007 as chorus master—working on more than 40 different productions covering the full operatic repertoire, from the baroque period to the twentieth century.
Recent highlights include an Emmy-winning Live from Lincoln Center telecast of Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” and the New York-stage premiere of Leonard Bernstein’s “A Quiet Place.” He has also been guest conductor of the National Chorale and guest chorus master of the New York City Ballet, Manhattan School of Music, and Aspen Music Festival.
While earning master’s and doctoral degrees in choral conducting from Indiana University, he held the positions of chorus master (2001-2003) and opera coach (2001-2004) with IU Opera Theater. With IU, he was also director of the University Chorale and the Motet Choir. From 1998 to 2001, he was assistant director and accompanist with The Singing Hoosiers.