David Uhlmann
Principal Timpani
The Robert Haywood Morrison Chair
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, David Uhlmann joined the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra as Principal Timpanist in 2026. Prior to this appointment, he served as Principal Percussionist with the Lima Symphony Orchestra and appeared as a guest timpanist with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Pittsburgh Opera, Chattanooga Symphony, and Ann Arbor Symphony. He has also performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, New World Symphony, and Erie Philharmonic.
Uhlmann holds degrees from Duquesne University and the New England Conservatory, with additional studies at Cleveland State University. His summer festival appearances include performances as Principal Timpanist with the Sunflower Music Festival, as well as fellowship positions at the Aspen Music Festival and the Texas Music Festival.
Do you have any pre-performance rituals?
If there is an evening performance, I love a nice midday nap.
If someone were coming to their first Charlotte Symphony concert, what would you tell them?
It's really ok if you clap in between movements.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
As much as I love diving into all the amazing repertoire we get to play, I am probably listening to pop/top-40 music as often, if not more.
