1944 – 2024
The British Music Society says farewell to one of our much-loved Vice-Presidents following the death of Sir Andrew Davis, aged 80.
Recognised as one of Britain’s greatest conductors, he was described by music critic Alan Blyth as ‘a conductor whose technical skill was enhanced by an inborn enthusiasm for and dedication to the task in hand that he was able to transfer to the forces before him.’
He was a familiar presence on the podium, not least through his countless appearances at the BBC Proms in his capacity as chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
He will be especially remembered for conducting the BBC Symphony Orchestra at the traditional Last Night of The Proms, including his famous Last Night speeches.
Read Barry Millington’s obituary in The Guardian