Mark Messenger

After knowing Christopher for only a short while, it was clear to me that he was a truly exceptional person.  From our very first meeting he made me feel such a special friend and valued colleague as he always offered generous words of encouragement. His incandescence shone through those beautiful eyes and irrepressible smile. Thank…

Chris was the most extraordinary human being I have ever met. His positive influence with us at KCLSO was immeasurable. Personally, it was an honour to work beside Chris on my first proper concerto with the orchestra, which involved a wonderful tour to Loire Valley. I will cherish our memories of working on it together….

“Wohin können wir denn sterben, wenn nicht in immer höheres, größeres, schwersterblicheres – Leben hinein!” (Christian Morgenstern)  Vom 17.-31.8.2001 war ich als Krankenschwester beim “annual Summer Therapeutic Retreat at Lake Huron Retreat Center, Michigan”. Das war initiiert durch Molly und Quentin McMullen und Christopher war so etwas wie ein merkurieller Multimanager, kannte sich immer aus,…

Most inspirational conductor. Will be missed by many.

In 2003, Christopher came to Mainz, Germany, on the exchange program of the VDAC as a nominee of Dartmouth College. It is not every day that one has the good fortune of becoming acquainted with someone of such unusual character, with such a zest for life and such incredible musical talent. Christopher made sure to…

I met Chris briefly in 2018 when we were both watching the rehearsals of the Royal Opera House’s Ring Cycle, and I’m still struck by his effortless warmth and the kindness he radiated.  On one day, he and I followed the music using a single score and it makes me smile to remember how clearly…