SAD NEWS | Pioneering Australian Conductor Patrick Thomas Has Died - Aged 85

Australian flutist and conductor Patrick Thomas has passed away - aged 85

Australian flutist and conductor Patrick Thomas has passed away - aged 85.

Throughout his career, he served prominent conducting and leadership positions with a number of Australian orchestras - including the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra, Queensland Symphony, ABC Sinfonia and the Tasmanian Symphony.

"Queensland Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Patrick Thomas, former Chief Conductor from 1973 to 1977," a spokesperson for the Brisbane-based ensemble has said.

"Under his direction the Orchestra became an Australian leader in the performance of new music and promoted programmes such as Proms, which continues today …” 

Maestro Thomas also appeared as Guest Conductor with a number of international ensembles including the Moscow Philharmonic, Halle Orchestra, Bavarian Radio Orchestra, Munich Philharmonic, BBC Symphony and the CBC Symphony Orchestra.

Our condolences are with his family, friends and colleagues.

BRAHMS | ACADEMIC FESTIVAL OVERTURE | PATRICK THOMAS & SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA | 1983