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Sunday, Feb 22, 2026

Sir Andrew Davis, Renowned Conductor of BBC Symphony Orchestra and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, Dies at 80

Sir Andrew Davis, a renowned conductor, passed away at the age of 80.
Throughout his illustrious career, he held significant positions such as chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and musical director of Glyndebourne Festival Opera.

Davis conducted with prestigious orchestras worldwide.

He led the Last Night of the Proms ceremony 12 times between 1988 and 2018, delivering the customary speech in the style of the major-general from The Pirates of Penzance.

Dame Sarah Connolly and Julian Lloyd Webber paid tribute to Sir Andrew Davis following his death.

Connolly described Davis as a hearty, humble, smart, and funny man who made things easier for musicians with kindness, not arrogance.

Lloyd Webber called Davis a great musician who was wonderful with soloists.

Sir Andrew Davis, a renowned conductor, is being remembered fondly by those who worked with him.

In 2012, he collaborated with the Philharmonia Orchestra and pianist Stephen Hough in a performance of a Delius concerto.

Hough praised Davis as a brilliant collaborator in concertos with a sharp ear and clear direction.

Sakari Oramo, the chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, also paid tribute to Davis, expressing deep respect and admiration for his contributions to music and the BBCSO over many decades, always with distinction and kindness.
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