Famed conductor Claudio Abbado dies at 80

epa04032368 (FILE) A file picture dated 10 August 2007 shows Italian conductor Claudio Abbado (L) performing with his orchestra during the opening concert of the Lucerne Festival, in Lucerne, Switzerland. According to media reports, Abbado died at the age of 80 in Bologna on 20 January 2014. EPA/EDDY RISCH

Inspirational Italian musician is also noted for his commitment to nurturing young talent.

CLAUDIO Abbado, who decided to become a conductor after hearing a concert at La Scala at the age of eight and went on to lead the Milan, Italy, opera company and top orchestras for more than half a century, has died aged 80, La Scala said on Monday.