We are overjoyed to share some extraordinary news from the LA Opera: violinist Alyssa Park, who has been so essential to Hear Now’s concerts over the years, has been appointed Stuart Canin Concertmaster of the LA Opera Orchestra. She makes her debut in the role with Verdi’s Falstaff, opening April 18 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Many of you know Alyssa as a founding member of the Lyris Quartet — the co-founding ensemble at the heart of Hear Now. This appointment is a remarkable new chapter in an already distinguished career, and we couldn’t be more proud to cheer her on.

The position carries deep significance. Following the untimely passing of Roberto Cani, who served with distinction for 14 seasons, LA Opera held a highly competitive search for his successor. Music Director James Conlon put it simply: “I am more than delighted that in Alyssa Park we have found an extraordinary violinist and musician for the future.”

Alyssa herself has reflected on what the role means: “After many years on the concert stage, I am deeply honored to begin this new chapter. To serve Los Angeles — a city that has been central to my artistic life — in this role is an extraordinary privilege.”

She becomes only the second person to hold the Stuart Canin chair, established in perpetuity by Dunard Fund USA to honor Stuart Canin’s tenure from 2001 to 2010. Fittingly, Alyssa first appeared with LA Opera as guest concertmaster for the 2010 world premiere of Daniel Catán’s Il Postino.

Learn more about Alyssa on her LA Opera artist page. Congratulations, Alyssa — what a gift to Los Angeles!