Sir John Dankworth R.I.P
Jazz legend Sir John Dankworth passed away on Saturday, at the King Edward VII Hospital in London. He was 82 years old.
Together with wife Dame Cleo Laine, he founded The Stables music venue in Wavendon, which was celebrating its fortieth anniversary the same day.
A star studded line-up – including Victoria Wood, Timothy West, Prunella Scales, Maureen Lipman, Zombies musician Rod Argent and show presenter Paul O'Grady joined John's wife, son Alec, daughter Jacqui and granddaughter Emily for the performance.
It became a fitting tribute to the hugely popular musician and composer.
His wife of 52 years made the announcement near to the end of the Gala Concert. She told the sold-out crowd: "I have some sad news for you.
"John was going to come on and play in his wheelchair, but we went to the hospital today and when we got there, John had passed."
She said: "We were joined at the hip for a long time and I'll miss him."
Monica Ferguson, Chief Executive of The Stables said: "Sir John's influence on both jazz and the music industry as a whole has been immense and we are deeply saddened by this tragic news.
"His support over the years was steadfast, and our resolve now is to ensure that The Stables continues to deliver great music experiences for everyone."
Stephen Clarke, Chairman of the Wavendon Allmusic Plan Ltd – the charity which owns The Stables, also paid tribute.
"It is a fitting tribute that on the day of Sir John's death we celebrated on stage the 40th anniversary of The Stables with some of the many artists who have performed with Sir John at The Stables," he said.
"Sir John's passion for good music will remain the organisation's guiding principle, and the Stables his enduring legacy."
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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