The Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra announced in June the appointment of the Department of Music's Daniel Abrahams as assistant conductor of the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra and Conductor of the Arkansas Philharmonic Youth Orchestra's Chamber Winds and Percussion. The appointment begins with the 2017-18 season. 

As assistant conductor, Abrahams will conduct members of the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra in chamber music ensembles, as well as provide assistance to Music Director Steven Byess. He will also be actively involved with the Orchestra's many education programs, which includes leading the newly created APYO Chamber Winds and Percussion ensemble and co-directing the Arkansas Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Abrahams will also coordinate the orchestra's Link Up program, a music education partnership with Carnegie Hall.

"I am thrilled and humbled to have been selected for this incredible opportunity with the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra and Arkansas Philharmonic Youth Orchestra," Abrahams said. "Having the opportunity to work with such extraordinary musicians and Maestro Steven Byess is a great honor. I look forward to broadening an already extensive education program with the addition of the chamber winds and percussion ensemble to the youth orchestra, and working with area music educators through the Link Up program."

Daniel Abrahams is Assistant Professor of Music Education in the Department of Music in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas. Prior to arriving at the U of A, Abrahams taught instrumental music for 18 years in the Omaha Public School District where his ensembles received honors at district, state, and national festivals.

He has been a featured presenter at state, national, and international conferences, and has contributed chapters in books published by Oxford University Press, Rowman and Littlefield, and GIA. Abrahams' research interests include the teaching of conducting and the use of reciprocal teaching in ensembles.

He holds a bachelor's degree in music education from Temple University, a master's degree in conducting from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and a doctorate in music education from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. He was a euphonium student of Charles Villarubia (Rhythm and Brass) and Jay Krush (Chestnut Brass Company); and studied cello with David Low, formerly of the Omaha Symphony.