Tributes to Bramwell Tovey, Principal Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra

We are deeply saddened by the news that Bramwell Tovey, Principal Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra, has died. Keen to popularise classical music, he was also a successful composer, winning both a Grammy and a Juno for his work. He led the BBC Concert Orchestra in a wealth of repertoire, with concerts at the BBC Proms and at London's Southbank Centre. A true friend to the orchestra, his warmth and musicianship will be sadly missed.

Alan Davey, Controller BBC Radio 3, BBC Proms and BBC Orchestras and Choirs, says: "Bramwell Tovey was a gifted conductor who has been an integral part of the BBC Concert Orchestra since January 2018. His rapport with the orchestra has seen them flourish under his leadership and his joyful, human approach to music making. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time."

Bill Chandler, Director of BBC Concert Orchestra, says: "The BBC Concert Orchestra family is deeply saddened to lose Bramwell Tovey, our Principal Conductor for the past four years and dear friend for many more. He was a musicians' conductor whose warmth, sense of humour and artistic leadership will be sorely missed."

Performances during Bramwell Tovey's tenure as Principal Conducer of the BBC Concert Orchestra include the Viennese Night at the 2020 BBC Proms and 20th Century British Film Music in 2021. At London's Southbank Centre, where the orchestra is an Associate Orchestra, Tovey led them in Women's Words and Voices as part of the BBC Four Inside Classical series and in world premieres by BBC CO Composer in Residence Dobrinka Tabakova including, Tectonic and Timber & Steel. He conducted the orchestra in inspiring family concerts, including in his hometown of Redbridge, London. They performed on many recordings for broadcast and CD.