Kazem Abdullah works internationally, appearing with orchestras such as Atlanta Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Orquestra de São Paulo, New World Symphony, as well as guest conducting with The Metropolitan Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Théâtre du Châtelet de Paris. He was the music director for the symphony orchestra and opera house of Aachen, Germany from 2012-2017.
Abdullah excels at reaching newer and diverse audiences through innovative programming and riveting performances. In addition to exploring new venues to bring concerts to audiences, he has experimented with juxtapositions of styles in non-traditional concert formats. Abdullah is a formidable opera conductor with a repertoire of over 30 operas. He is recognized in the classical music industry for connecting with audiences through his well executed and inspiring concerts.
Read full bioLyric Opera of Chicago will present the second of two Chicago-set world premieres in its season: Proximity.
Lyric Opera of Chicago
More infoSure to be one of the most widely heralded musical events of 2022/23, Proximity is a gripping, powerful trio of new works that confronts head-on some of the greatest challenges affecting us as a society: yearning for connection in a world driven by technology; the devastating impact of gun violence on cities and neighborhoods; and the need to respect and protect our natural resources.
San Antonio Philharmonic
More infoThe only thing better than a concert featuring works by Barber and Mozart is a concert featuring two works by these illustrious composers. The Philharmonic will share Barber’s Adagio for Strings—arguably his best-known work—which was originally the slow movement from his String Quartet, Op. 11. Then, because both Barber and Mozart were known for their skill at composing for voice, soprano Vanessa Becerra joins Kazem Abdullah for Mozart’s concert aria, Bella mi fiamma, and for Barber’s wistful and nostalgic Knoxville Summer of 1915,which is set to a prose poem by James Agee. The concert closes with Kazem and the orchestra performing Mozart’s beloved Symphony No. 40.
Robinson Center
More infoFrederick Delius: Irmelin: Prelude
Doreen Carwithen: Concerto for Piano and Strings, feat. Samantha Ege
Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique
Charlotte Symphony
More infoAlexi Kenney - Violin
* MOZART Symphony No. 38 in D Major, "Prague"
* STRAVINSKY Violin Concerto in D Major
* DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 8 in G Major
A departure from his previous work, Dvořák's cheerful Symphony No. 8 evokes wonderment. Led by "attentive" (The Florida Times-Union) guest conductor Kazem Abdullah, this program also includes works by Mozart and Stravinsky.