Let's make this birthday one to remember.

81 years old (Born on July 13, 1943)

Happy Birthday, David! From Houston to San Francisco, you've orchestrated more hits than Mozart had symphonies. Your visionary leadership transformed the Houston Grand Opera into a powerhouse of innovation and creativity—proving that opera can indeed be grander in Texas.

Then you took your talents westward and made waves at the San Francisco Opera. Under your baton, audiences laughed louder, cried harder—and occasionally wondered how you convinced sopranos to wear those elaborate costumes without tripping. Here's wishing you another year filled with standing ovations (and fewer wardrobe malfunctions). Bravo on an extraordinary career; may this birthday encore be unforgettable!