Abbado, Claudio, 1933–, Italian conductor, b. Milan. He debuted (1960) in his native city, conducting the orchestra at La Scala, where he subsequently served (1968–86) as musical director. He was appointed (1971) principal conductor of the Vienna Philharmonic, was (1986–91) musical director of the Vienna State Opera, and since 1987 has directed music for the city of Vienna. Abbado was also (1979–88) musical director of the London Symphony Orchestra. In 1989 he became principal conductor and artistic director of the Berlin Philharmonic. Abbado is known for his expansion of the standard classical repertoire, often with contemporary works, and for his active encouragement of young musicians and composers.

Abbado, Claudio

(born June 26, 1933, Milan, Italy) Italian conductor. Abbado studied piano, composition, and conducting at the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory before beginning to conduct in Vienna. He was long associated with Milan's La Scala (1968–86), as principal conductor and ultimately as artistic director, as well as with the Vienna Philharmonic and the London Symphony Orchestra. In 1989 he succeeded Herbert von Karajan as permanent conductor and artistic director of the Berlin Philharmonic. He is known for his commitment to adventurous programming, including much modern music.