Dankworth, John Philip William (1927– )

English jazz clarinettist and alto saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. Inspired by Charlie Parker, who he had met in New York City and Paris, France, he formed his Seven in 1950, which was followed in 1953 by his big band. He was a leading figure in the development of UK jazz. His film scores include Saturday Night and Sunday Morning (1960) and The Servant (1963).

He also composed television music, for example, for the series The Avengers (1964). His albums include Five Steps To Dankworth (1957), Jazz Routes (1961), Full Circle (1972), Fair Oak Fusions (1982), Symphonic Fusions (1985), and Moon Valley (1998).

In 1993, he formed another orchestra, the Dankworth Generation Band, co-led with his son Alec on double bass. He also continued to lead his own quintet, and to tour with his wife, vocalist Cleo Laine.