Andrew Synnott

Dr. Andrew Synnott is a prominent figure in Irish opera as a conductor, vocal coach, and composer. He holds roles at the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM) in the Vocal Studies department, specializing in opera conducting and vocal coaching. His work spans conducting orchestras like the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland and leading Ireland’s major opera companies including Wexford Festival Opera and Irish National Opera.

His compositional career includes four operas, notably La cucina (2019)—the first opera by a living Irish composer staged on Wexford Festival’s main stage—and Dubliners (2017), which reimagines James Joyce’s stories. He has conducted over 200 opera performances and collaborated with leading Irish vocalists for three decades.

As an educator, Synnott mentors RIAM students through vocal coaching and operatic productions. His research includes a 2016 doctoral thesis on methodology in operatic composition. Notable works include orchestral and choral pieces, with commissions from prestigious institutions. He co-founded the Crash Ensemble in 1997 and served as its artistic director.