Jazz Icon Sir John Dankworth Dies Aged 82

Influential British jazz musician Sir John Dankworth has died at the age of 82. 

The saxophonist, who had been suffering from poor health for several months, died at the King Edward VII Hospital in central London in the early hours of Saturday (February 6).

His wife, Dame Cleo Lane, made the announcement of his death shortly after she performed with their children at the Buckinghamshire Theatre yesterday evening.

The show last night was held to mark the 40th anniversary of the venue the couple founded together.

Dankworth's agent told the BBC today: "The all-star concert, featuring numerous British stars of stage, screen and recordings, became a tribute to John."

Dankworth was a musical director for an array of music legends - including Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald - throughout his 60 years in the music business.

He was knighted by the Queen in 2006 for his services to music.