The celebrated English conductor made a deep impression on musical scenes stretching across three continents.
Born in Ashridge, England, Davis' first major post was as associate conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra before crossing the pond as music director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, beginning in 1975.
For 13 years, he served in the role and is credited with helping raise the global profile of the orchestra through tours of China, Europe, Australia and Northern Canada.
He went on to serve as music director at Glyndebourne before taking on the dual role of music director and principal conductor of the Lyric Opera of Chicago in 2000. A position he held through the 2020/21 season.
From 2013-19, Davis spent time in Australia working with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
In 1992, Davis was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire and in 1999, made Knight Bachelor. He was especially known for conducting the Last Night of The Proms, including his often-humorous Last Night speeches.
Davis died in Chicago on April 20, 2024 from leukemia, according to his manager.
He was 80.
We are deeply saddened to hear that Sir Andrew Davis has died. Past Chief Conductor and Conductor Laureate of the BBC SO, and President of the BBC Symphony Chorus. A vital force in British music for many decades and a friend to us all. He will be greatly missed. pic.twitter.com/nPaFR6PMOu
— BBC Symphony Orchestra & Chorus (@BBCSO) April 21, 2024
The COC joins our colleagues in remembering Sir Andrew Davis.
— Canadian Opera Company (@CanadianOpera) April 22, 2024
The acclaimed British conductor was renowned worldwide and was a beloved member of the Canadian music community, leading the Toronto Symphony Orchestra as Music Director for 13 years.
Rest in peace, Maestro. pic.twitter.com/1jnB9EpYD5
Oh, Sir Andrew Davis has died. How sad. A wonderful musician, longtime Music Director of @TorontoSymphony; did so much for music in Canada & everywhere. We last played together in February '23 in Manchester. He was not well, but when he conducted it was full of life & precision. pic.twitter.com/bxQ7b5RaJW
— Angela Hewitt (@HewittJSB) April 21, 2024
Sir Andrew Davis (1944-2024)
— BBC Philharmonic (@BBCPhilharmonic) April 21, 2024
We are all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Andrew Davis. Our relationship with him was forged over many years of performances and recordings, and the legacy he left and the laughter he brought will not be forgotten by our musicians… pic.twitter.com/mkAD9vLno7