For Christopher A great shadow has darkened the sky. The birds have begun their silent mourning. They sense the powerful moment of someone’s passing. Nature knows another spirit has retired from the earth, and we who remain behind veil our faces as we weep uncontrollably. Incomplete explanations force our minds to ask and ask again,…
During the two years I first knew Zeke at Dartmouth (his first and second years), he was voraciously curious, unfailingly kind, and unstoppable in his quest to learn. His extraordinary gifts spanned music and languages in particular, and he was an amazing teacher. Zeke sang in Handel Society, took conducting, and served as an assistant…
I’m so shocked to hear of your death, Christopher. We met briefly in Munich when I revived George Benjamin’s opera Written on Skin, and your bright energy was utterly engaging. Your warmth, fun and clear talent shone at every moment and I can’t believe your light has been extinguished so soon. RIP
Dear Chris, It is difficult for me to find the right words. You were far too young to leave this world behind and it is absolutely shocking and heartbreaking to read of your sudden death. To write these words feels surreal and painful. I will remember you as a smiling soul, a great talent, a…
In 2018 I was asked to play for a carol concert for SKY and asked my colleague Peter Stark if he could recommend someone to lead this – ‘someone warm, kind, inclusive, communicative and joyful’ – Peter said ‘I have the very person – Chris McMullen-Laird’. And he was all these things, and more.
There are no words to convey my sadness at this news. Zeke touched me deeply with his positive energy, creativity, and humor. The picture of us gathering and sipping green Waldmeister from the Dartmouth Club of Germany’s winning cup is indelibly in my mind. Such carefree days. He was taken much too soon and the…
