The Shanghai businessman, FT columnist and bon viveur Sir David Tang died yesterday of cancer, aged 63. He received the diagnosis only in the past month and had announced that he was planning a farewell party.

Sir David was a pianist of near-professional standard and a board member of many music organisations.

He created China Exchange in London’ Chinatown as a place of bilateral cultural dialogue, involving the Royal Academy of Music and the National Opera Studio, among other groups.

His close friends included Isaiah Berlin, Prince Charles, Harvey Weinstein, Zaha Hadid and Gwyneth Paltrow.