As of 2016, Emanuel-Cristian Caraman is the founder and Artistic Director of South Bend Lyric Opera.

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In 2017, Mr. Caraman was the recipient of the Michiana 40 under 40 recognition award, conferred by South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce. 

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Mr. Caraman received his doctorate in music from National Music University in Bucharest, under Professor Doctor Grigore Constantinescu, with the thesis, American Vocal Music of the 20th Century. 

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As of 2022, Mr. Caraman is an Assistant Professor of Music in Voice, and Director of Opera Studies at Western Michigan University.