SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music Awards Pellicciotti Prize to Timothy Takach & Caitlin Vincent, for ‘Computing Venus’

SUNY Potsdam’s Crane School of Music is proud to announce the winner of the third Domenic J. Pellicciotti Opera Composition Prize, following the recent competition finals.

Composer Timothy C. Takach and librettist Caitlin Vincent were selected as the recipients of the 2024 Pellicciotti Prize for their new opera, “Computing Venus.” The opera provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of astronomer Maria Mitchell, a ground-breaking historical figure who paved the way for women in STEM in the 19th century. The opera follows Mitchell’s efforts to cultivate the next generation of women astronomers, even as growing movements threatened to close the world of science to women forever.

“We are so fortunate that our students have the opportunity to bring Maria Mitchell’s story to life on the stage,” said Dr. William Gibbons, dean of The Crane School. “Timothy C. Takach and Caitlin Vincent are creating a powerful work that speaks to issues women around the world face every day, and collaborating on this world premiere is an experience our students, faculty and community will never forget.”

For more information, read the official press release.

Computing Venus will have a workshop at SUNY Potsdam in the fall of 2023, with a premiere scheduled for fall of 2024.