A tribute to Sir Andrew Davis: Sakari Oramo and the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus perform Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius.
'Farewell but not forever, brother dear…' When Sir Andrew Davis died in April 2024, the musical world didn’t only lose a conductor of unique energy and insight. It lost one of its most beloved and respected personalities; a man who – as Chief Conductor and Conductor Laureate of the BBC SO, and President of the BBC Symphony Chorus – was at the heart of British music for more than three decades.
Tonight, instead of the concert that Sir Andrew had planned to conduct, Sakari Oramo conducts Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius. Davis was one of the supreme interpreters of Elgar’s heart-rending masterpiece: now, Dame Sarah Connolly, David Butt Philip and Roderick Williams join forces with his former orchestra and chorus under the baton of BBC SO Chief Conductor Sakari Oramo to celebrate the life of a much-missed artist, colleague and friend.
Sir Andrew Davis (1944-2024) was due to have conducted this concert. Everyone at the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus has been deeply saddened by the news of his death.
This performance will end at approximately 9.30pm
Please be advised that we will not be able to admit latecomers until 35 minutes into the concert. Doors will open from around 7pm.
Produced by the BBC Symphony Orchestra
Programme
Performers
*Nicky Spence is unwell and has had to withdraw from this concert. The BBC Symphony Orchestra is grateful to David Butt Philip who will sing the tenor role in his place.
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EC2Y 8DS
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