Stan Tracey, godfather of British jazz, dies aged 86
Pianist and pioneer of the jazz scene dies of cancer after recently celebrating over six decades of music making
He was not on the list.
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 1965 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."
Born in South London in 1926, Tracey fulfilled a role as accordion entertainer during the second world war, before going on to perform with the famous Ted Heath band. Inspired by the likes of Thelonious Monk and Duke Ellington, Tracey was house pianist at Ronnie Scotts for six years. He gained the respect of peers such as Sonny Rollins as well as finding a modern fanbase through tastemakers such as British DJ Gilles Peterson.
Tracey is survived by his son, Clark. His daughter, Sarah, died last year. Clark, a percussionist himself, said: "Stanley William Tracey passed away peacefully this afternoon. Finally the pain has gone and he can rest in peace."
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