To address gender imbalance on opera podiums, TDO launched The Linda and Mitch Hart Institute for Women Conductors, the only program of its kind, to train women conductors in 2015. More than 500 candidates from 40 nations have applied to be trained, advised, and supported by this extraordinary leadership initiative over the past decade.

This groundbreaking institute has helped change the face of classical music by significantly advancing the careers of women in the most visible position in the orchestra. The culmination of each season’s program is a festive Showcase Concert where each participant conducts The Dallas Opera Orchestra and guest singers in a program of operatic favorites in the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House.