News Article - 15/03/2010
Sir George Monoux College Pays tribute to Jazz Legend and alumni, Sir John Dankworth
Jacqui Dankworth attends student performance and dedication ceremony honouring the extraordinary life of world famous jazz performer
On Wednesday 10th March, the life of a world famous jazz composer and alumni, Sir John Dankworth was celebrated at Sir George Monoux College at an official dedication ceremony.
The College’s Music Department hosted an evening of jazz music performances and dedications for an audience of students, staff, alumni and special guests. Sir John Dankworth’s daughter, the jazz performer Jacqui Dankworth unveiled a commemorative plaque to officially mark the re-naming of the Music Suite in his honour.
[Sir John Dankworth's daughter, Jacqui Dankworth unveils the Dedication Plaque.]
The evening began with student performances including a repertoire of jazz music that Sir John Dankworth performed throughout his life. This was followed by a special dedication lead by James Hedges, Chair of Corporation at Sir George Monoux College who said, "Sir John Dankworth has become the inspirational figure of many hearts. In 1938 he earned his place to study at Sir George Monoux Grammar School and studied here from until 1944. John discovered the joy and love of music at a very young age remained dedicated to musical education throughout his life. Tonight, we are dedicating this music suite in his honour so that future generations of Sir George Monoux students may follow in his footsteps. John Dankworth leaves behind his legacy and his inspirational achievements. He will be deeply missed by many jazz fans, fellow musicians all those who knew him personally."
[Sir John Dankworth's daughter, Jacqui Dankworth]
The ceremony continued with the unveiling of the commemorative plaque by Jacqui Dankworth and further performances from music students. The ceremony was also attended by Douglas Insole CBE, former vice captain of the England cricket team, who was also a student at Sir George Monoux Grammar School and a lifelong friend of Sir John Dankworth.
Kim Clifford, Principal of Sir George Monoux College said, "Today, we remember, honour and celebrate the life of one of our most extraordinary alumni, Sir John Dankworth. His music touched millions around the world and to our students his story is one of encouragement and inspiration. We are incredibly honoured to welcome his daughter, Jacqui Dankworth, who has accepted our wishes to dedicate our Music Suite to her father’s memory."
[Paul West performs "In the Sentimental Mood" by Duke Ellington at the Sir John Dankworth Dedication Ceremony.]
