Umberto
Fanni

Umberto Fanni is a prominent figure in performing arts, currently serving as the Director General and Artistic Director of the Royal Opera House Muscat. He has garnered recognition for his leadership in theatre management and as an award-winning concert pianist. 

Fanni’s musical journey began at the Conservatory of Music in Brescia, where he graduated with high honours, before continuing his studies at the Conservatory of Music in Geneva. In 1985, he founded the Young Italian Chamber Orchestra, composed entirely of talented young musicians who are now established soloists or are playing in renowned orchestras such as La Scala in Milan and Wiener Philharmoniker.

Under the mentorship of renowned conductor Maestro Claudio Scimone, Fanni entered the world of performing arts management, taking on the role of Assistant Artistic Director for “I Solisti Veneti,” Italy’s finest chamber ensemble. His contributions to the music community include founding a theatre and music festival management company. 

In addition to his managerial roles, Fanni dedicated 18 years to academia as a professor at the Catholic University of Milan, teaching Management of Performing Arts. His leadership experience includes positions as General Manager and Artistic Director for institutions such as the Fondazione Teatro Lirico ‘G Verdi’ in Trieste and the Fondazione Arena di Verona. 

Since joining the Royal Opera House Muscat in 2014, Fanni has led significant advancements, focusing on co-producing operas with leading theatres and creating original works. His efforts have transformed the institution into a respected producing and hosting platform for the arts.

Fanni also serves as a Council Member of the Beijing Forum for Performing Arts and as a Board Member of the World Association of Performing Arts. In January 2024, he was honoured with the Conferral of the Order of Oman by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, underscoring his impactful contributions to the global arts community.