This orchestra pranked their conductor on his birthday – and it was adorable

4 February 2019, 16:34 | Updated: 19 July 2019, 12:26

By Sofia Rizzi

Sir Andrew Davis was surprised by Toronto Symphony Orchestra when they ignored his cue during a concert, instead whipping out an elaborate rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’.

A few months ago, Sir Andrew Davis celebrated his 75th birthday in style with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

The conducting legend took to the podium, expecting to hear Wagner's Ride of the Valkyries. But the orchestra didn't last long before they all ignored the conductor's cues and played a symphonic cover of ‘Happy Birthday’.

The music turned into a fully-blown orchestral version of the birthday tune, with harmonised vocals from the choir – of course.

Sir Andrew is conductor laureate of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, as well as being Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Chief Conductor of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

In 1992, the maestro was made a Commander of the British Empire, and in 1999, he was recognised in the New Year Honours List.

If this had you tearing up, this isn't the first time an orchestra has played a birthday prank on a conductor...