Francesco Izzo

Francesco Izzo is a Professor of Music at the University of Southampton, serving as Postgraduate Admissions Tutor (2021-22). He previously held roles as Head of Music (2015-17, 2018-19) and Assistant Professor at East Carolina University (2005–07). His research focuses on 19th-century Italian opera, with particular emphasis on Giuseppe Verdi, textual criticism, and critical editions. He leads The Works of Giuseppe Verdi series and actively collaborates with opera houses globally.

Teaching & Supervision: Teaches modules on opera, music theory, and analysis. Supervised PhD projects including Candida Mantica’s L’ange de Nisida, which saw world premieres at the Royal Opera House and Donizetti Festival. Current PhD students include David Hugh Mott, Dai Tang, and Airi Yamada.

Grants & Roles: Secured funding from the British Academy and European Union. Served as co-director of the American Institute for Verdi Studies (since 2010) and led the Festival Verdi in Parma, which won the 2018 International Opera Awards for Best Opera Festival.

Professional Engagement: Collaborates with institutions like Glyndebourne, Teatro di San Carlo, and the Juilliard School. His work bridges academia and performance, with roles as pianist, vocal accompanist, and consultant for renowned artists and conductors.