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Sir Andrew Davis (1944–2024), the celebrated British conductor famed for delighting audiences at the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Proms with his sparkling wit and exquisite musicianship, is remembered in this Prom from the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Symphony Orchestra and Martyn Brabbins. The centrepiece of the concert is Reich’s Jacob’s Ladder, the composer’s ‘dream of ascending and descending a ladder between heaven and earth’ that was deemed ‘energetic, meditative, light, graceful and refreshing’ when premiered in New York last spring. The second half will now include the ‘Ritual Dances’ from Tippet’s opera The Midsummer Marriage and Elgar’s ‘Enigma’ Variations, two pieces close to Sir Andrew Davis’s heart.

Broadcast live on ´óÏó´«Ã½ Radio 3

Sir Andrew Davis (1944–2024) – a beloved presence at the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Proms as Chief Conductor of the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Symphony Orchestra (1989–2000) and latterly Conductor Laureate – was due to have conducted this concert. His presence is sorely missed.

Image: Martyn Brabbins © Mark Allan