Christopher Davies

Founder

Chris Davies

Biography

Christopher Davies is a visionary Nigerian conductor celebrated for blending the rigor of classical tradition with the vibrant storytelling of African music. Across three decades on the podium he has led ensembles throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America, consistently winning accolades for his imaginative interpretations.

Trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London, Christopher Davies studied under the legendary Sir Colin Davis before serving as assistant conductor with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Those formative seasons refined his craft and opened doors to principal conducting posts with regional orchestras on two continents.

In 2020 he founded the ChrisDavies Orchestra to bridge traditional repertoire with contemporary African voices. Under his leadership the ensemble has commissioned more than 50 new works, premiered cross-genre collaborations, and established a mentorship pipeline that now supports over 120 young musicians.

Christopher Davies remains passionate about making classical music accessible. He curates family concerts, designs school residencies, and speaks frequently about the power of music to inspire peace, focus, and excellence. That commitment to education has earned multiple honors, including the National Arts Education Award (2019).

Awards & Recognition

2018
Conductor of the Year, International Classical Music Awards
2019
National Arts Education Award
2020
Honorary Doctorate, Royal Academy of Music
2022
Lifetime Achievement Award, Classical Music Association

Notable Performances

• Carnegie Hall debut with Mahler Symphony No. 5 (2015)

• Royal Albert Hall Proms appearance (2017)

• Sydney Opera House residency (2019)

• Berlin Philharmonie guest conductor (2021)

• Vienna Musikverein New Year Concert (2023)

Selected Recordings

• Beethoven: Complete Symphonies (2016)

• Contemporary American Composers (2018)

• Brahms: Symphonies 1-4 (2020)

• New Voices: 21st Century Orchestra Works (2022)