David Sanborn, one of the world’s greatest jazz saxophonists, died on May 12, 2024 at the age of 78. He lost his long battle with cancer prostate.
As for his apparitions at Umbria Jazz, Sanborn has performed at the festival several times. In 1986, he played with Al Jarreau at the Stadio Renato Curi in Perugia. Furthermore, in 1997, he played at Villa Fidelia, near Spello, as part of a supergroup of the time, “Legends” by Eric Clapton, which included other famous musicians: Marcus Miller (formerly a member of Miles Davis’ group), Joe Sample and Steve Gadd.
David Sanborn was an American alto saxophonist very influential, known for his recordings that mixed jazz with instrumental pop and R&B. He began playing the saxophone before he even attended high school and was a session musician long before the release of his first solo album, “Taking Off,” in 1975.
During his career, he published more than two dozens of albums, nine of which went gold or platinum, and won six Grammys.
David Sanborn has left a footprint indelible in the world of music and will be missed by many. His performances at Umbria Jazz are remembered as moments of great music and passion.
