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Public votes Lyttelton BBC jazz artist of the year
Louise Jury, Chief Arts Correspondent22 Jul 2008
Musician and broadcaster Humphrey Lyttelton was named artist of the year at this year's BBC Jazz Awards.
Lyttelton, who died aged 86 in April, beat Guy Barker and married duo Cleo Laine and John Dankworth to the title last night. He was nominated posthumously.
The result, chosen by a public vote, was announced by Lyttelton's old friend, writer and comedian Barry Cryer, at a ceremony at the Mermaid Theatre.
Musicians from a diversity of genres appeared at the ceremony, including legendary producer George Martin, classical violinist Nigel Kennedy, and DJ and drum and bass star Goldie. Jeff Beck, Courtney Pine and Jamie Cullum also presented awards.
Singer-songwriter Christine Tobin was named best vocalist and the best album went to All Is Yes by The Blessing.
Kit Downes, a young pianist, took the rising star honour and saxophonist Tony Kofi was named best instrumentalist. Other awards went to saxophonist Tommy Smith, the double bassist Charlie Haden, and Alan Bates, the founder of Black Lion records and supporter of several generations of jazz artists. Punk-inspired quintet Fraud took the innovation prize.
