Stan Tracey CBE, acclaimed British jazz musician and winner of Ivor Novello’s first jazz award, has died aged 86.
The pianist enjoyed a career spanning more than 70 years and was widely regarded by critics and fellow jazz musicians as one of the greatest artists of the genre.
Career highlights included a residency at Ronnie Scott’s jazz club from 1959-66 and his first major composition, Under Milk Wood, inspired by Welsh writer Dylan Thomas' radio play.
He also received a number of accolades during his career including the first Ivor Novello award for jazz in 2012.
Stan’s relative Ben Tracey announced: ‘It is with deepest regret that I must announce the death of Stan Tracey OBE, CBE 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 was awarded an OBE in 1986 and a CBE in the 2008 New Year Honours list. His final album The Flying Pig was released and recorded this year.
A funeral will be held at Golders Green Crematorium, West Chapel at 13:00 on 18 December. All are welcome to attend.
The pianist enjoyed a career spanning more than 70 years and was widely regarded by critics and fellow jazz musicians as one of the greatest artists of the genre.
Career highlights included a residency at Ronnie Scott’s jazz club from 1959-66 and his first major composition, Under Milk Wood, inspired by Welsh writer Dylan Thomas' radio play.
He also received a number of accolades during his career including the first Ivor Novello award for jazz in 2012.
Stan’s relative Ben Tracey announced: ‘It is with deepest regret that I must announce the death of Stan Tracey OBE, CBE 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 was awarded an OBE in 1986 and a CBE in the 2008 New Year Honours list. His final album The Flying Pig was released and recorded this year.
A funeral will be held at Golders Green Crematorium, West Chapel at 13:00 on 18 December. All are welcome to attend.
