Vic Ash with Wallace Davenport and Ray Charles.
With great sadness I can confirm that legendary clarinettist and saxophonist Vic Ash passed away this afternoon, aged 84.
We have lost not only one of the founding fathers of British modern jazz, and a truly gifted instrumentalist, but one of the true gentleman of the music profession. His talent, wit and wisdom will be missed by everyone who knew him – fans and fellow players alike.
Deepest condolences to Vic’s wife Helen and their family.
Vic was born on 9 March 1930. He began playing professionally when he joined Kenny Baker’s band in 1951, at the same time as Tubby Hayes. He had a long and busy playing career which included accompanying Hoagy Carmichael, Cab Calloway and Frank Sinatra. He was a familiar face in the BBC Big Band saxophone section.
