French Conductor, Pianist Frederic Chaslin Leaves Santa Fe Opera

Santa Fe Opera chief conductor Frédéric Chaslin has resigned after two seasons in the company.

Opera General Director Charles Mackay announced Tuesday that Chaslin was leaving because of his increased duties as music director at the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra and a desire to focus more on composing.

"On behalf of the entire company I wish to thank Maestro Chaslin for his enormous musical contribution during the past two seasons," said MacKay in a statement.

"We regret his departure and wish him the very best," MacKay added.

The French conductor, composer, and pianist was named chief conductor of the opera company in 2010. This past summer, he conducted Puccini's "Tosca" and Rossini's "Maometto II" and received positive reviews.

Santa Fe Opera said a search for its new conductor will begin in the fall.