On Feb. 13, the Lyric Opera of Chicago lost one of its unsung heroes when board president and CEO Kenneth G. Pigott passed away at the age of 71. Although Mr. Pigott made his contributions behind the scenes, he made a tremendous and enduring impact on the Lyric Opera which audiences will continue to enjoy for seasons to come.
Mr. Pigott championed numerous causes during the thirteen years he served on the Lyric’s board of directors, as well as other regional and international arts organizations such as Chicago’s Merit School of Music and Opera America. His combined business acumen and passion for opera helped him craft Lyric’s strategic initiative to promote growth and sustainability in turbulent economic times that have challenged other companies.
One of Mr. Pigott’s most recent achievements was establishing Lyric’s current leadership team following former general director William Mason’s announced retirement. Pigott was instrumental in selecting Anthony Freud as the next general director and enticing Renee Fleming to accept the role of the company’s creative consultant. (In fact, the Chicago Tribune reports that Mr. Pigott offered Fleming herself the general director role!) Since this time, Lyric also pursued deeper collaboration with its community, including an ambitious project to help the Merit School of Music expand its vocal program, for which Fleming was recognized with the Alice S. Pfaelzer Award for Distinguished Service to the Arts.
Mr. Pigott’s passing follows the announcement of the Lyric’s 2015-2016 season in which one of the most extravagant projects of his new leadership team will be realized. Next season marks the premiere of Lyric’s new commission Bel Canto starring acclaimed soprano Danielle de Niese.
