Famed Italian Conductor Claudio Abbado Dies at Age 80

CBS News reports that Claudio Abbado, that famed Italian conductor Claudio Abbado died today, Monday, January 20th at age 80. Raffaella Grimaudo, a spokesman for the Bologna mayor's office, confirmed that he passed away in Bologna after a long illness.

Abbado served as music director of the La Scala opera house in Milan, principal conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra, principal guest conductor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, music director of the Vienna State Opera, and principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic orchestra. He was made a Senator for life in the Senate of Italy in 2013.

The Recording Academ released the following statement on the news of his passing:

Two-time GRAMMY® winner and current GRAMMY nominee Claudio Abbado was an influential and distinguished conductor. His unique and highly regarded talents earned him directorships of some of the worlds most respected musical institutions including La Scala, the London Symphony Orchestra and the Vienna Philharmonic.

His deep respect for music drove his inspiring performances as well as his commitment to new music and young musicians. The classical music world has sadly lost one of its great talents.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy