In addition to leading his own ensembles and playing with the Ted Heath band, Parnell worked with the British broadcaster ATV, where he oversaw the music for the long-running variety show Sunday Night at the London Palladium. He also worked on specials featuring such performers as Sandy Duncan, Ann-Margret, Carol Channing, Tom Jones, Glen Campbell, and Barbra Streisand.
He is survived by his wife, Veronica, and five children.
