Cambreling was the music director of the Théâtre de la Monnaie, Brussels from 1981 to 1991, during Gerard Mortier's tenure. He served as artistic director and general music director of the Frankfurt Opera from 1993 to 1997. During his Frankfurt tenure, he encountered controversy over proposed budget cuts from the city of Frankfurt and the director for opera and ballet, Martin Steinhoff.
Cambreling's tenure as music director of the Théâtre de la Monnaie, Brussels was marked by his association with Gerard Mortier. He later faced challenges at the Frankfurt Opera from 1993 to 1997, particularly in relation to budget cuts and opposition from Martin Steinhoff.