Sir Colin Davis being presented the Queen’s Medal for Music by Queen Elizabeth II in December 2009. Photo: PASir Colin Davis, president of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), died last night at the age of 85.
In a statement, the LSO said: “Sir Colin first conducted the LSO in 1959 and became principal conductor in 1995.
“He was the longest-serving principal conductor in the LSO’s history and has been at the head of the LSO family for many years.
“His musicianship and his humanity have been cherished by musicians and audiences alike.”
Sir Colin was honorary conductor of the Dresden Staatskapelle and also had links to the Royal Opera House, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the English Chamber Orchestra.
In addition, he had mentored young musicians at the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School.
In a statement, the LSO said “Sir Colin’s role in British musical life was immense” and added that “music lovers across the world have been inspired by his performances and recordings.
“He will be remembered with huge affection and admiration by the LSO and our thoughts are with his family at this time.”
Sir Colin, who was knighted in 1980, was known for his interpretations of Mozart, Sibelius and Berlioz, the LSO said.
In his long career he was twice named Classic Brit Male Artist of the Year, most recently in 2008. His numerous other awards included two Grammy awards, the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal and a Gramophone award.
Sir Colin, who became the LSO’s ninth president in 2007, also worked with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra.
Tributes were paid to the Surrey-born composer on the LSO website, which set up a memorial page for people to leave messages about Sir Colin.
Borjan Canev of the Macedonian Philharmonic Orchestra wrote: “Rest in peace Sir Colin, and thank you for being my inspiration.”
Peter Niven wrote: “This is such sad news. As a member of the London Symphony Chorus, I was conducted many times in concerts by Sir Colin.
“He was a wonderful, generous musician who will be greatly missed.”