Robert Ashens
CONDUCTOR – PIANIST – ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
San Francisco — Bay Area-based musician Robert Ashens, whose distinguished career as pianist and conductor has brought him to many world capitols, is Artistic Director of Opera San Luis Obispo (formerly Pacific Repertory Opera) and Artistic Director / co-founder, Opera Oregon. The Maestro conducts ballet and symphonic works with companies nationally and internationally; he concertizes nationally as a solo pianist and chamber ensemble artist, while maintaining coaching studios in San Francisco, Oakland and Corvallis (OR). He also leads cultural tours to Vienna, as well as coaching and conducting in various parts of Italy.
Robert Ashens is a member of Mid-Valley Rotary in Eugene, Phi Beta and is listed in WHO’S WHO IN AMERICAN MUSIC.
With a repertoire of over one hundred operas, he has conducted to great acclaim for regional companies throughout the United States and in many major cities of Europe, especially in Italy. He has also accompanied many opera luminaries in concert. Ashens is in constant demand as a lecturer, accompanist and program director for concerts and recitals nationwide. As an educator for over thirty years, Ashens’ unique style and commitment focuses on inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds through his dynamic, energetic and lively presentations of this exciting art form. His lively wit and humor continue to enthrall opera audiences wherever he travels.
http://www.myspace.com/robertashens
