Free Jazz Legend Peter Brötzmann Has Died

A colossus in free music…

Robin Murray

23 · 06 · 2023

German saxophonist and free jazz hero Peter Brötzmann has died.

The new has been confirmed through an official statement, corroborated by a number of sources in Germany and internationally. Peter Brötzmann passed away at home; he was 82 years old.

Inspired to learn the saxophone at a young age, Peter Brötzmann caught a pivotal concert from Sidney Bechet. A keen art student, his own work borrowed from avant garde visual movements.

A colossal with free music across Europe, Peter Brötzmann released more than 50 albums as band leader. The material is encompasses is vast – the German musician’s work moves from stately post-bop to free composition via noise rock.

Working throughout his life, Peter Brötzmann‘s final album ‘Philisophy In Sound’ was released in 2020.

Author and musician David Keenan mourned his loss, commenting: “Utterly heartbroken to lose my brother Peter Brötzmann, the greatest of men and a true 20th century titan. You changed everything for me Peter, I’ll never forget you or the incredible example you showed me. You will live forever in my heart. See you when I get there motherfucker.”

Matmos founder Drew Daniel mourned a “great player”, writing: “Was lucky to have seen Peter Brotzmann in a duo with Han Bennink in Baltimore and it was bracing and fiery and powerful, as expected, but it was also thoughtful and ultimately joyous. Farewell to a great player. R.I.P.”

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