Specifically, the Novum Foundation will help HGO identify, train, and elevate talented, young Latin American artists for mainstage roles, the Butler Studio, and the Young Artists Vocal Academy. Funding will allow HGO’s leading artistic staff to travel to Latin America and identify prospective candidates, as well as to offer individualized fellowships to outstanding Latin American singers identified in the talent search. This new program area will be especially important to singers in Latin American markets where high-level vocal instruction is not readily available but who would benefit greatly from concentrated training through world-class instruction at HGO. Through Novum Foundation’s support, these promising young artists will have the opportunity to learn and train in a professional setting while engaging with HGO’s leadership, creative teams, and audiences, giving them the opportunity to develop their talent, unique strengths, and career path.

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About the Novum Foundation

The Novum Foundation, established in 2023 as the philanthropic arm of Novum Energy, was created to reflect the company’s growing global presence and deep commitment to social responsibility. With a mission to energize the communities where Novum Energy operates, the foundation builds partnerships with stakeholders dedicated to advancing holistic education, health, and well-being, all while promoting a more sustainable future. Operating independently, the Novum Foundation is funded by a dedicated portion of Novum Energy’s profits, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to driving meaningful, long-lasting change. Since its inception, the foundation has proudly supported over 31 transformative projects across Texas, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Argentina, the United Kingdom, and Tanzania.

About Houston Grand Opera 

Houston Grand Opera (HGO) is one of the largest, most innovative, and most highly acclaimed opera companies in the United States. General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor assumed leadership of the organization and responsibility for its strategic vision in 2021. HGO was the only American finalist for Opera Company of the Year in the 2019 International Opera Awards, and the only American company to be nominated twice. In fulfilling its mission to advance the operatic art, to serve the Houston community, and to be a global leader in the future of opera, HGO has led the field in commissioning and producing new works (76 world premieres to date) and in training and nurturing promising young artists and administrators. The company contributes to the cultural enrichment of Houston and the nation through a diverse and innovative program of performances, community events, and education projects that reaches the widest possible public. HGO’s pioneering Community and Learning initiative has served as a model for other arts organizations. The company invites all Houstonians to experience superlative opera without the barrier of price through discounted single tickets and subscriptions, subsidized student performances, and free productions. HGO has toured extensively and has won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and three Emmy awards. It is the only opera company to win all three honors.