Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

May 14, 1960 in London, England

 

Alec Dankworth is a renowned British jazz bassist and composer, born on February 14, 1960, in London, England. He is the son of the legendary jazz musicians John Dankworth and Cleo Laine, and grew up surrounded by music. Dankworth began playing the piano at the age of six, but later switched to the bass guitar, which became his primary instrument. Dankworth's musical education began at the age of 16 when he attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. He studied there for two years before returning to the UK to pursue his career in music. Dankworth's early influences included jazz greats such as Charles Mingus, Ray Brown, and Ron Carter. In 1980, Dankworth joined the band of jazz pianist Tommy Chase, and later played with other notable jazz musicians such as Clark Terry, Buddy Rich, and Mel Tormé. He also played with his father's band, the John Dankworth Orchestra, and with his mother, Cleo Laine. Dankworth's career took off in the 1990s when he formed his own band, the Alec Dankworth Trio, which included pianist David Newton and drummer Allan Ganley. The trio released several albums, including "If You're Passing By" and "Rhythm Changes," which received critical acclaim and helped establish Dankworth as a leading figure in the British jazz scene. In addition to his work as a performer, Dankworth is also a prolific composer and arranger. He has written music for film, television, and theater, and has arranged music for a variety of artists, including his mother, Cleo Laine, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Dankworth has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 1997, he was awarded the prestigious BBC Jazz Award for Best Bassist, and in 2004, he was awarded the Services to Jazz Award at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards. He has also been nominated for several other awards, including the British Jazz Award for Best Bassist. Dankworth has performed at some of the world's most prestigious jazz festivals, including the Montreux Jazz Festival, the North Sea Jazz Festival, and the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival. He has also performed at major venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Barbican Centre in London. In addition to his work as a performer and composer, Dankworth is also a dedicated music educator. He has taught at several music schools and universities, including the Royal Academy of Music in London and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Dankworth's contributions to the world of jazz have been significant, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. His unique style and virtuosic playing have earned him a place among the greats of jazz, and his commitment to music education ensures that his influence will continue for generations to come.

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