David Charles Abell

David Charles Abell
David Charles Abell conducting at Glimmerglass Opera, 2008
David Charles Abell conducting at Glimmerglass Opera, 2008
Background information
Birth nameDavid Charles Abell
Born1958 (age 65–66)
Jacksonville, North Carolina, U.S.
GenresSymphonic music, opera, musical theatre
Occupation(s)Conductor, musicologist
Years active1982–present
Websitewww.davidcharlesabell.com

David Charles Abell (born 1958) is an American conductor of opera, orchestral music and musical theater. Described as "a protean talent" with "impeccable and inspired" skill as a conductor, he is active in symphonic music, opera and musical theatre.[1] Abell was one of Leonard Bernstein's last protégés, and collaborated with Bernstein on many works during the 1980s.[2]

Abell is known for his television appearances worldwide as conductor of the Les Misérables' 10th[3] and 25th[4] Anniversary concerts. He is also recognized as an authoritative interpreter of the musicals of Stephen Sondheim.[5][6]

In addition to maintaining an active international opera career, Abell has worked to restore clarity to musical scores with poorly preserved source materials.[2] As of 2017, Abell is a resident of London.[7]

  1. ^ Blog, WDAV (24 August 2020). "Classically Trained: David Charles Abell | WDAV: Of Note". Retrieved 2022-06-02.
  2. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference Ford was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  3. ^ E[dwards], A[drian]. "Schönberg Les Misérables", Gramophone magazine, August, 1996. Retrieved on October 19, 2011.
  4. ^ "Les Misérables 25th Anniversary Concert | Cast & Creatives – David Charles Abell". Archived from the original on 2010-09-07. Retrieved 2011-10-20.
  5. ^ Nice, David. "Stephen Sondheim At 80, Royal Albert Hall", The Arts Desk, August 1, 2010. Retrieved on October 20, 2011.
  6. ^ Millington, Barry. "Masters and servants at the Proms", The Evening Standard, August 2, 2010. Retrieved on October 19, 2011.
  7. ^ "Meet Conductor David Charles Abell – Meet Conductor David Charles Abell". Opera Philadelphia. Retrieved 2022-06-02.