Professor Emeritus of Music and former Director of Choral Activities at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Dr. Abercrombie retired in May 2007 after 33 years in the Department of Music. He succeeded Alan Harler as Director of the Madrigal Singers in 1974, became Director of the University Chorale in 2000, and founded the University Chamber Choir in 1978.

Dr. Abercrombie is a noted conductor, clinician and workshop facilitator, with extensive experience working with singers and students at all levels. Since his retirement he has helped found a new Children's Chorus of Springfield, helped coordinate the International Federation of Choral Music’s new program Conductors Without Borders, and continued research into new approaches in teaching and learning conducting.