A personal tribute by Su-a Lee

It is with a broken heart that I share news of David's passing. His light, which inspired so many of us, has left this world, though his spirit remains in the music he created and the lives he touched.

Playing beside David for nearly ten years was truly one of the greatest honours of my life. As a cellist, he was a genuine force of nature—brilliant and exuberant, with an energy that lifted everyone around him. In our SCO cello section of four, he made each of us feel like copilots, affectionately calling us his "four-wheel-drive.”

He gained utmost respect wherever he went, with the greatest conductors seeking his knowledge. I always delighted in how much they all adored him…asking his opinion from the cello chair in the middle of rehearsals.

I remember often Sir Charles Mackerras would make a grand statement and then after a slight pause would add “don’t you think, David?” with a cheeky quizzical smile.

What I'll cherish most was the fine balance he struck between musical genius and infectious humour. His mischievous grin and playful jokes brought fun to even the most formal situations. He loved repetitive humour, and he took special delight in my inevitable forgetting of punchlines—something that always brought him joy.

Despite his devastating diagnosis of scleroderma which forced him to hang up his cello bow over eleven years ago, David's passion never dimmed. He poured himself into conducting and teaching, sharing his immense knowledge with younger musicians, providing them with immeasurable inspiration and support.

By some miracle, before his fingers became too affected, he recorded all six Bach Solo Suites—recordings that stand as a testament to his extraordinary musicianship and historical understanding.

My heart aches especially for his two beautiful sons, whom I have the honour of being godmother to. David's incredible spirit lives on through them.

Perhaps today, in his memory, wear a flowery shirt—a small tribute to the vibrant, colourful soul we have lost but will never forget.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Su-a Lee

SCO, Sub-Principal Cello