Jed Williams - 1952-2003

One of the most tireless promoters and influential figures of jazz in Wales died suddenly in November 2003 at the age of 51.

Jed (John Ellis Dowell) Williams played many roles, not only as artistic director of the Brecon Jazz Festival but also as a founder of Jazz UK magazine, the Welsh Jazz Society and its long-running venue in Cardiff, the former Four Bars Inn.

Countless jazz musicians and fans in Wales and across the UK will be grateful to Jed for the support he's given us over the years, and for the opportunities we've had to see and even share a stage with some of the major international stars he's brought to Wales.

In my case, l'm particularly grateful for the encouragement Jed offered me in my radio work and in allowing me to promote my programmes at Brecon Jazz each summer.

Many of you will know that Jed had suffered from poor health in recent years, but news of his death still came as a shock to those of us who knew him.

Jed's work was recognised at the BBC Jazz Awards 2004 when he was posthumously given the Services to Jazz award.

See the following websites for obituaries and tributes:

The Guardian

The Times

Western Mail

Andy Roberts - Editor, Jazz in Wales