Stephan Fillare has cultivated a distinguished conducting career across the United States, leaving an indelible mark in the world of orchestral and operatic performances. In 2024, Stephan was appointed as the Director of Orchestral Activities at Furman University, marking a significant milestone as he begins his first university role.

Prior to this, Stephan served as the inaugural Harmony Conducting Fellow of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, where he conducted a Young People’s Concert featuring the music of Gabriela Lena Frank and led a segment showcasing the iconic compositions of John Williams. His return to New Haven in March 2023 to direct performances of Arturo Marquez's Danzón No. 2 marked a pivotal chapter in his musical journey.

Stephan is currently completing his DMA in Orchestral Conducting at the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he has been a Yates Fellow, receiving full scholarship support. He is in the final stages of his degree, which will culminate in a lecture recital on the operas of William Grant Still. Earlier in his studies, he conducted performances with the CCM Philharmonia, featuring works by Barber, Janáček, Mendelssohn, Mozart, and Smetana.

His extensive experience includes a four-year tenure as the Assistant Conductor at the New York Repertory Orchestra, where he also served as Concertmaster. He has guest-conducted productions of Mozart operas with the Manhattan Opera Studio, collaborated with New Camerata Opera on double bill productions, and worked as a Guest Conductor with the New Amsterdam Symphony Orchestra.

In the Summer of 2023, Stephan served as the Assistant Conductor at the International Summer Opera Festival of Morelia, contributing to a captivating production of Puccini's La Bohème. This experience showcased his passion and expertise in the realm of opera.

Demonstrating a commitment to education and community engagement, Stephan served as the guest conductor for the 2023 Nassau Music Educators Association's Division 5 String Orchestra in Long Island, NY. He assisted Maestro Vinay Parameswaran in the production of Janáček's The Cunning Little Vixen at CCM in March 2024.

In July 2024, Stephan joined the Berlin Opera Academy as an Assistant Conductor, playing a crucial role in a production of Mozart's Le Nozze Di Figaro. This international engagement further solidified his standing in the world of opera, providing him with opportunities to collaborate on a global stage.

Beyond the podium, Stephan has showcased his musical prowess in principal roles, including Concertmaster positions with various opera companies. Dedicated to community engagement, he has actively collaborated with local communities and educators, contributing to online initiatives and talks during the pandemic.

Stephan Fillare earned his Master of Arts in Instrumental Conducting from the Aaron Copland School of Music in 2014, studying under Maurice Peress. His conducting studies also include mentorship under Anthony Hose.

Education

• D.M.A. Cincinnati-Conservatory of Music ABD
• M.A., Queens College Aaron Copland School of Music
• B.M., Violin Stetson University