Mark Messenger

I babysat for Christopher and his sister, in Dornach, Switzerland, in 1985; Christopher was a delightful, steady, poised, sweet kid.  I am blown away that this uniquely loving, kind, gifted, creative man’s life has come to a sudden end amidst so much beautiful vitality. Each and every day, so important, so mysterious, so precious. Thank you,…

Zeke was one of my first friends at Dartmouth. We haven’t crossed paths since graduation but his voice and presence come so clearly to mind when I think of him. That incredible energy. It is so sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts are with his family.

Chris, I met you first in spring 2001 at the fundraising, playing „ein eingebildeter Kranker“ with Moira. Having fun together, drawing anatomic hearts on Papierservietten…  I could stay at Chris‘ wonderful family through summer 2001\. Talking swissgerman with him, instead of learning English… he tought me how to make american pancake and chocolate chip cookies. Walking…

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.

My Dear Chris: ever since we met at the Bayerische Staatsoper back in 2012, we stayed in touch, and I was so delighted that we crossed paths a little more when you brought your life to London.  You were destined for great things in music, and your shining personality, enthusiasm, and knowledge were infectious.  I’ll…

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…