R.I.P. Ralph Towner (1940 - Jan. 19, 2026)

© Ken Drew

The passing of guitarist Ralph Towner sent echoes of sadness across a music world of which jazz was only one of the many segments enhanced by his musicality.

Although an ECM recording artist for over 50 years he was equally comfortable playing classical guitar, straight ahead jazz, folk and blues often reverting to a 12 string guitar for the latter format.

In that memorable year 2018, BSH reviewed an outstanding concert by Towner and Norma Winstone (photo above) at the late lamented Gateshead International Jazz Festival - HERE.

A year earlier, I reviewed a solo guitar album by Ralph Towner - My Foolish Heart which contained a beautiful version of the title track. Played on classical guitar, it  will be a memory that will stay with me forever. Lance