Andrew Forbes-Lane
North A 1969-74
Andrew was a lifelong performer who discovered his artistic voice as a member of the Leys Glee Club. He remained closely involved with the School, visiting the Development Office in recent years, sharing reminiscences and donating treasured photographs to the archive.
After school, Andrew studied at the University of Manchester and the Royal Northern College of Music, having worked in lighting design and theatre management before committing fully to classical singing. His distinguished career took him across the world, performing with leading companies including the English National Opera, Glyndebourne, Welsh National Opera, Birmingham Opera Company and Opera North. He was the first opera singer to give recitals in Kathmandu: a testament to his adventurous spirit and love of sharing music as widely as possible.
Andrew was as generous as he was accomplished. He gave four charity concerts each year and freely offered guidance to aspiring performers. In 2003 he performed a concert at West Road Concert Hall in Cambridge, featuring several choirs including The Leys Chapel Choir, and waived his fee.
In later years, Andrew faced illness with remarkable courage. He attributed his determination and discipline to lessons learned at The Leys, where he first embraced the importance of resilience, teamwork and friendship; qualities he carried with him throughout his life. Andrew’s wife Rowena sadly predeceased him by many years. He balanced his frequent concert performances with writing, teaching, time with friends, gardening, and long walks in nature with his beloved dogs.
Words by Liz Walden