No verification other than his Wikipedia page, but it appears the great trumpeter Tomasz Stańko passed away today in Warsaw at the age of 76. Thanks to the members of the Roon community for guiding me to his music…
It’s been confirmed on Steve Hoffman’s forum…
Stańko lost his natural teeth in the 1990s, although over time he developed a new embouchure with the help of a skilled dentist and monotonous practice. He would spend long hours playing what he deemed to be “boring” long tones which helped to strengthen his lip, in spite of playing with the disadvantage of false teeth.
Oh no! Heard him at SFJAZZ 3 years ago with his New York Quartet: David Virelles on piano, Reuben Rogers on bass, Gerald Cleaver on drums. Memorable session, including some of the music from his Wislawa album and what would eventually be recorded in December Avenue. The only consolation is that his much younger bandmates are going strong and will continue to blend his influence into their own musical ideas for many years to come. Don’t miss listening to Virelles, Rogers, or Cleaver live if you can, that’s how the music will continue.
These sad news also remind us to renew acquaintance with the new generation(s) of great jazz trumpeters: Ambrose Akinmusire, Jonathan Finnlayson, Avishai Cohen … as well as with still shining stars of the old guard like Wadada Leo Smith. We should never take their wonderful original music and performances for granted.
Sad News, indeed.