Bedford's Billinghurst, Solomon Honored At Met Gala

BEDFORD, N.Y. -- Bedford resident Sarah Billinghurst, who has worked for the Metropolitan Opera for nearly two decades, and her husband, Howard Solomon, were honored by the Met at its April 27 gala in New York City.

Sarah Billinghurst and Howard Solomon were honored at a Metropolitan Opera gala on April 27.
Photo Credit: *Julie Skarratt, Metropolitan Opera*

Tom Auchterlonie

05/08/2014 5:30 p.m.

Billinghurst is an assistant general manager for the Met. Solomon is a member of its board.

When she was reached for a comment, Billinghurst's reaction was “very honored by being honored.”

Solomon's honor follows a retirement party that was held for him, according to Billinghurst. He previously served as chief executive officer for Forest Laboratories and currently serves as its chairman.

Billinghurst's responsibility at the Met involves running its artistic department, according to her biography. Additionally, she was involved in organizing Kirov Festivals at the Met's opera house, tours to Japan, and orchestra tours in the United States and Europe. Billinghurst organized an array of special events, according to her biography, including the Joe Volpe Gala, New Years Eve celebrations, an anniversary events including Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo.

Her career also includes having been with the San Francisco Opera for more than two decades, which included roles as assistant to the artistic administrator and then as artistic administrator. Her tenure there involved collaboration with the Kirov Opera through co-productions, according to her biography.

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