Sir Edward Downes Conductor Emeritus |
|
|
 Sir Edward Downes 1924 - 2009
The BBC Philharmonic is deeply saddened to announce the death of Sir Edward Downes, former Principal Conductor of the Orchestra. Sir Edward Downes, was the much loved and respected Principal Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic from 1980-1991.
Before that Sir Edward (Ted as he was known to his friends and colleagues) held the position of Chief Guest Conductor and, after his tenure as Principal continued working with the Orchestra annually giving concerts and making recordings as Conductor Emeritus.
Sir Edward brought distinction and acclaim to the BBC Philharmonic and was instrumental in taking the Orchestra out of the recording studio and into the concert hall. He also took the Orchestra abroad, including two hugely successful tours in 1989 to Brazil and Germany.
The years 1980 - 1991 were fundamental to the BBC Philharmonic’s development and Sir Edward brought a large following of dedicated people to his concerts all of whom enjoyed the depth and commitment that he brought to the Orchestra’s sound. It was obvious to all that there was a tremendous respect from the musicians for this great conductor.
Sir Edward’s wealth of musical knowledge meant that he brought some fascinating and undiscovered pieces to the Orchestra’s repertoire; he was also a great champion of new music and brought the works of George Lloyd, and Peter Maxwell Davies to the concert hall and on disc.
Sir Edward had an intense relationship with the great Russians, Prokofiev and Shostakovich and was a highly respected for his interpretations of these composers works. He was instrumental in setting up the Prokofiev Foundation in London and was a family friend of both composers.
Andrew Orton, former Associate Leader of the BBC Philharmonic said:
I have known Ted since 1967, and have led the BBC Philharmonic for him on many occasions. I very much enjoyed making recordings with him (for Radio 3 and Chandos Records), the most memorable of which was that of Shostakovich’s Leningrad Symphony.
To be in the company of Ted and Joan was always an absolute joy; informative, intelligent and amusing, they were clearly devoted to one another. "I know I speak on behalf of the Orchestra, in saying that they always enjoyed his company. I wrote to Ted on my retirement and I received a lovely letter back from him. Myself and my wife Wendy are very saddened at this time.
General Manager of the BBC Philharmonic, Richard Wigley said:
We were all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Edward and Lady Joan Downes over the weekend.
Ted's wonderful music making and commitment to the BBC Philharmonic for over 40 years has left a special legacy and there is something of Ted in every concert that we give.
As Principal Conductor for 11 years he raised the orchestra's stature by inspiring the highest technical and artistic standards, coupled with something indefinable that lifted performances to new levels.
'His' musicians are feeling devastated by the loss of such a caring and passionate man, and of Joan, his inseparable partner." |
|
|
 |
|
|
Listen to R3
