Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra appoints Lucien Lewin as board chair

Lewin, a former trombonist with the orchestra, performed with the CPO between 1998 and 2005 before pursuing a legal career. He joined the orchestra’s Board in 2023 and will take over the chairmanship from Judge Dennis Davis, who will continue serving as Interim Chair during the transition period.

CPO chief executive and artistic director Adriaan Fuchs said Lewin’s experience within the organisation and his professional background would contribute to the orchestra’s future direction.

“Lucien’s appointment marks a powerful new chapter for the orchestra,” Fuchs said.

“Few people understand this institution from as many perspectives as Lucien does – as musician, board member, legal professional, and passionate advocate for the arts. He represents a new generation of leadership, grounded in excellence, vision, and a deep personal connection to this orchestra.”

Lewin described the appointment as a significant personal and professional milestone.

“Music has been an important part of my life for many years, both as a performer and as someone who believes strongly in the transformative role that the arts play in society,” he said.

“The CPO is one of South Africa’s most important cultural institutions, with a proud history of artistic excellence and community impact. I look forward to working with my fellow board members, the musicians and management team to support the orchestra’s continued growth and contribution to the cultural life of Cape Town and South Africa.”

Davis also welcomed the appointment, saying Lewin brought “a rare combination of artistic understanding, professional accomplishment, and leadership at a pivotal moment in the orchestra’s evolution”.

Lewin holds a Bachelor of Music degree and a postgraduate LLB from the University of Cape Town. He is currently a partner in the Cape Town office of Bowmans, where he specialises in dispute resolution and complex commercial litigation.

Prior to entering the legal profession, he taught brass at several schools in Cape Town and received multiple academic and musical distinctions during his career.