In memory of David Kaye: Louise’s story

David was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2008. He died in September 2019 from Parkinson’s related complications following Parkinson’s related surgery.

Since 2013, Louise has devoted herself to raising funds for Parkinson’s research and the urgent need for better treatments and a cure.

A shared love for classical music

David and Louise both grew up with a love of classical music. They first met 45 years ago at a concert. Prior to David’s death, they had worked on the musical fundraising concerts together.

Wigmore Hall is a venue of huge significance. It had been a huge part of David and Louise’s lives for many years and Louise calls it her second home.

It’s fitting that Louise has just completed her 4th fundraising concert for Parkinson’s UK at the London venue. The previous 3 concerts raised a total of £150,000.

Louise said: "When I planned this concert for Parkinson’s UK back in 2017, 2 things never crossed my mind. First, that it would turn into a memorial concert for my much loved husband. And secondly, that the original 2020 date would be cancelled and that we would have to wait another 2 years for it to come to fruition.

"I want to help find a cure for this condition which affects millions of people around the world."

A concert for Parkinson’s UK: In memory of David Kaye

The concert took place on Saturday 24 September. It included performances from Tai Murray on violin, Amihai Grosz on viola, Sheku Kanneh-Mason on cello and Isata Kanneh-Mason on piano.

It has already raised £114,000 thanks to the huge generosity of the sponsors and many individual donors. The total will be even greater once programme and further ticket sales are factored in.

Louise said afterwards: "I know David would have been delighted by this concert and that the money raised will go to research to find a cure for Parkinson’s."

Caroline Rassell is Chief Executive Officer of Parkinson’s UK. She attended the concert and said on the night: "I didn't get the chance to meet David, but have heard so much about his love of classical music and the way he saw the world through his passion as a photographer.

"My special thanks go to all the incredible musicians who gave their time and talent. And to Louise, for all your hard work in organising tonight, and your tremendous support of Parkinson’s UK."

Supporting world-class musicians

As well as fundraising for Parkinson’s UK, Louise continues to support musicians. In 2005, Louise and David bought a viola for Amihai Grosz, then a member of the Jerusalem Quartet. 

Over the following years, they became friends with many musicians and ended up buying a total of 9 instruments together. 2 more have been added to the collection since David died. 

These instruments are loaned to world-class musicians and 3 of these beneficiaries played at the concert including Amihai Grosz.

He said: "David was a man of his word. Every word he said counted, it was truly meaningful and always to the point. When he spoke you really wanted to listen. He lives in my heart and memories with the biggest gratitude and admiration."

David, photography and his book

Throughout his life, David's passion was photography. After being diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2008, he reduced his work commitments and was able to complete his ambition of travelling to every continent with his camera.

His book Shapes, Shadows and Lines gives us a glimpse into his unique way of looking at the world. Email us to order your copy at [email protected].