Irish-born Conductor Brendan Townsend Has Died, Age 52

The cellist and conductor was an assistant professor of music at Texas A&M International University and served as Music Director of the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra for 14 years

He guest conducted the Dutch Radio Symphony Orchestra, Sofia Symphony Orchestra, Cork School of Music Symphony Orchestra, Broadway Düsseldorf, Opera Comique Maastricht, Opera Zuid and the Transylvanian State Symphony.

“We are saddened to hear of the passing of longtime faculty member Brendan Townsend," Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) president Dr. Pablo Arenaz said. "His artistry and teaching made a profound impact on TAMIU students and our community. His enthusiastic support of TAMIU and our Laredo was unmatched and we will miss his jovial presence on campus, in our classrooms, on stage and in our community.”