From The Guardian:
Stan Tracey, the jazz pianist and composer hailed as the godfather of British jazz, has died aged 86.
Tracey was perhaps best known for Under Milk Wood, his 1968 suite based around Dylan Thomas’ radio play. His pioneering work helped British jazz forge its own sound rather than imitate the sounds coming over from the US. In particular, Tracey persuaded many British jazz musicians to move away from cover versions in favour of developing their own original material.
The news was announced on the official Stan Tracey Appreciation Facebook Page in a post that read: “It is with deepest regret that I must announce the death of Stan Tracey OBE, CBE today, at the age of 86. After a struggle with illness, he passed away having recently celebrated his 70 year professional career as a jazz pianist/composer. He is survived by a family who love him, and will miss him profoundly. His legacy is the generations of musicians young and old, past and future who have his influential example to look to. Many thanks to all those who have shown him such love and support over these many years.”
• Stan Tracey: http://www.stantracey.com
[Photo: William Ellis]
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