It is with great sadness that we learned today our dear colleague, friend and drum professor, Martin France, died peacefully at home yesterday following a long and brave battle with illness.
He has been one of our jazz drum professors for almost twenty years and has inspired and mentored generations of drummers during that time. During his extraordinary career, Martin France quietly forged a reputation as a modern legend of the music, one who was revered and respected throughout the world for his instantly recognisable sound and approach behind the drums. But more important than his accomplishments as one of the great jazz musicians in contemporary European music, he was a loved and valued member of the jazz community both within the Academy and far beyond. He leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives and will be hugely missed by all.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones, and his many musical colleagues and students past and present.
Nick Smart, Head of Jazz