Melbourne-based conductor Patrick Burns has been appointed as Artistic Director of the Lyric Opera of Melbourne. He will step into the role, following the departure of Patrick Miller, who has led the independent opera company artistically for the past decade.

Burns has worked as a conductor and assistant conductor for companies including The Australian Ballet, Opera Australia, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra Victoria, Melbourne Opera and internationally for the Serbian National Theatre, State Opera Ruse in Bulgaria and the Pazardzjik Symphony Orchestra in Bulgaria.

His appointment at Lyric Opera marks the first time he has stepped into the role of Artistic Director.

Patrick Burns. Photograph supplied

Speaking to Limelight Burns said: “It will be my first time as an Artistic Director of an opera company, although I have held similar positions with orchestras and choirs. I have always had a passion for opera and working with singers throughout my conducting career, so working towards an AD position in opera is something that I have certainly given much thought to and was definitely a career goal for me.”

Asked about the challenges of running an independent opera company, he says: “I...