North Downs Sinfonia held their tribute to Francis Griffin concert on Saturday evening, in the presence of several members of Francis’ family.
Francis died very unexpectedly in December 2021 after a
short illness. He not only conducted the orchestra on many occasions, but
introduced incredible soloists such as Nina Alupii-Morton (mezzo-soprano),
Davide Sorrentino (tenor) and Edwin Kim (violin). Edwin flew in from Korea especially
to play in an NDS concert, such was his regard for Francis, who will be sorely
missed. Francis was also instrumental in returning NDS to rehearsals once the
pandemic restrictions began to ease.
The concert featured three of Francis’ favourite pieces – Mozart Marriage of Figaro Overture (which was the first piece ever played in concert by NDS, under Francis’ baton); Haydn Symphony 99, and in the second half, the Beethoven Violin concerto with the outstanding soloist, Haru Ushigusa. This ever-popular work was skilfully interpreted and brilliantly performed by Haru, who received a prolonged standing ovation. She will be back!
The concert was conducted by Jonathan Maynard, who knew him well, and whom Francis helped in his conducting. Well over £100 was raised for Kings College Hospital liver unit.