Luka Venter

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…

Steffen Thorøe

I am deeply saddened to learn what has happened to Christopher. My thoughts are with Sindre and Christopher’s family. Only a week ago, Christopher was reaching out to me to hear, if Sindre and he could visit me in Denmark on their journey from Stavanger to Munich later this summer. I was excited to get…

Daniel Munks

In the few times I saw Chris when he visited the Croydon Music and Arts centre to conduct our orchestra, I distinctly remember his advice, positive manner and sense of humour. He was an inspiring conductor, and we genuinely looked forward to seeing him in the future.

Margarita Weber

Thank you Zeke for the unforgettable moments when you, Sindre and I were rehearsing Lohengrin on my couch in Cologne, before we went to see the opera. Andreas and I had the first chance to see you conduct in Rheinsberg. we stopped at my parents’ for a short visit in Rosbach and they were fascinated…

Dianne and Tom McFarland

Dearest Zeke,   For your most precious friendship, we thank you. For the times we spent together, sharing music, opera, books, stories, projects, food, Mozart, hopes and dreams, we thank you. For your never-ending love and  devotion to your family and friends, we thank you. Your winning smile, infectious laughter, fun- loving, creative self and…

Samuel Mallia

I vividly remember walking into college on the first day of induction week in 2017, impostor syndrome kicking in and all. I met Chris on one of the college tours. His electrifying smile and genuine interest in my past and future aspirations made me regain the warmth I had left with my family back home…

Rebecca Rossi

September 2004: first time I met you, joyfully welcoming me at Dartmouth. January 2020: last time I hugged you, after celebrating my mother’s Befana in Italy. In between, too much for now, but I’ll share more. I’m shocked and I cry. Romeo is not informed, but he asked me: “Mamma, hai bisogno di un’abbracciatona?”. I’m splitting it…