PRESS RELEASE
19 March 2026
Remembering Roger Mayhew
We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Roger Mayhew on 15 March 2026.
Roger was a passionate music lover, a loyal and generous supporter and a board member of many of the UK’s choirs and period-instrument ensembles. He was a familiar face to us all and an invaluable audience member. He will be fondly and greatly missed by our communities.
This statement is issued jointly by the ensembles that Roger generously supported over many years:
Laurence Cummings & Academy of Ancient Music
Jonathan Cohen & Arcangelo
Sarah Latto & Echo Vocal Ensemble
Paul McCreesh & Gabrieli
Owain Park & The Gesualdo Six
David Bates & La Nuova Musica
Suzi Digby & ORA Singers
Nigel Short & Tenebrae
Harry Christophers & The Sixteen
I’m so very sorry to hear of Roger’s death last Sunday. He bravely faced his diagnosis whilst remaining optimistic and having faith . This is such a sad loss and I shall personally miss his great enthusiasm, optimism, and joy in music and of course his bonhomie and generosity shared on every occasion we met. I particularly wish to acknowledge his backing of The Gesualdo Six through whom I got to meet and have interesting conversations with Roger. I mourn his passing and I send my sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will not be forgotten, nor will his caring generosity, given with the love and foresight which did so much that was good. Rest in peace Roger. God bless you.
Roger was one of life’s great enthusiasts. His passion was palpable. We all got caught up in it. I relish the occasional long and boozy lunches at his London club talking about music, musicians, singers, particularly the newer ones’, the stock market, his school (Clifton) and much more. He really made a difference with his support for so many in the business. May I add my name with The Grange Festival and Sienagosto to the distinguishes list above. We will all really miss him. Requiescat in pacem perpetuam.