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| Paolo Losi |
Peter Jones writes:
Paolo Losi, the London-based jazz pianist, died yesterday at the age of just 46. He is believed to have suffered a heart attack.
Musicians throughout the capital have expressed their shock and dismay at the news.
Vocalist Linley Weir wrote: “This is just awful , can’t believe it , so sad. Played with this lovely man for many years. So young, so talented. In shock.”
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Saxophonist Tracey Mendham wrote: “So so sad, way too early. My heart goes out to his family. We will all Miss this Beautiful Man who had a heart of gold and wonderful musicianship.”
Clarinettist Luca Luciano: “I have known Paolo for many years. He was a gentle soul and a very well mannered human being. He will be missed.”
Losi was recognized by all who knew him as a consummate musician. One of his greatest gifts was as an accompanist to singers. Paolo possessed the rare ability to put even the most nervous vocalist at ease, and to support their performance with a rich, melodic setting that would leave them and their listeners feeling that it had been something special.
I first encountered him as the house pianist at the monthly Mill Hill Jazz Club jam night, a job he had taken over from Ted Beament in 2012. Paolo Losi displayed extraordinary sensitivity, and was famed for his kindness and generosity.
He was also a teacher of music, and an accomplished drummer, saxophonist, guitarist and electric bassist. Born in Milan to an Eritrean mother and an Italian father, Losi had lived and worked in London for many years. At the time of his death, he had been back in Italy for a month and had just completed a professional engagement in Nice. On the day he died he was with his mother, and had been driving to Holland for a gig back in London. In sadness.
Categories: News
A great friend and a wwonderful musician.
His little advertised composition skills produced some beautiful and delicate gems.
He will be sorely missed.
I remember him as wonderfully kind and supportive when I was an extremely nervous first-time jammer. Very sad news.
We originally stated Paolo's age as 41. Thank you to the kind reader who corrected this fact.
I'll never forget you Paolo, you were like a big brother to me. I hope to see you again one day, I'll forever love and miss you bro.
Only days ago we were looking at pictures of Paolo playing at our 2009 wedding. A lovely, funny and caring guy. He will be missed by many fellow musicians and friends alike.
I'm stunned to hear that this lovely person who gave so much pleasure with his music and as a wonderful person has left us. RIP Paolo
Yvonne V Webley
Gone too soon Paolo, have a great time up there, EA
Paolo – the gentle giant. The wonderful leader and accompanist. Loved and cherished by all at Mill Hill Jazz Club. Oh how we'll miss him.
R.I.P. Paolo, was Mums neighbour. One of the most nicest people I met..
Generosity was his first instinct.He loaned me his portable drum kit to take on the train to Paris for nothing!He made my cheapo cheapo Chinese alto sound like a propper saxophone!He was the most encouraging musician I have ever had the good fortune to know.
..Paolo..missed and loved by more than just a few…
I do remember paolo becoming nervous when he was to meet a saxofonist, very good one, I think his name was david baptist, which I get to him as well through Paolo. Although I'm not a musician, Paolo regularly used to pay a visit and asking to accompany him in some events.
RIP BIG FELLOW,
Robinson