We are saddened to hear about the passing of world renowned conductor, Sir Andrew Davis (1944 - 2024) at age 80.

Among his many achievements, Sir Andrew was conductor laureate of the Toronto and Melbourne Symphony Orchestras, music director of Glyndebourne opera festival from 1988 to 2000 and music director and principal conductor of the Chicago Lyric Opera from 2000 to 2021.

In 2015, Sir Andrew was appointed Conductor Emeritus at Classic FM’s partner orchestra, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic.

Sir Andrew was one of the longest-serving chief conductors of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He was especially known for conducting the Last Night of The Proms concerts in London, where he was noted for his humorous speeches.

Sir Andrew made his Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) debut in 2009 and was the MSO Chief Conductor from 2013 to 2019 and Conductor Laureate from 2020 to 2024. During this time, he led the Orchestra to some of its highest heights both at home and abroad.

Equity Trustees is proud to be a major partner of the MSO. We extend our deepest sympathies with Sir Andrew’s colleagues, family and loved ones.