Former senator and legendary Edmonton jazz pianist Tommy Banks passed away Thursday at the age of 81 after a brief battle with leukemia.
Banks was revered around the world as a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, television personality and former senator. He’s been described as a national treasure and a jazz icon.
READ MORE: Edmonton jazz pianist and former senator Tommy Banks dies
After word of his death Thursday night, politicians, local theatres and others who knew Banks began sharing their sympathies and fond memories of the pianist.
MacEwan University shared a message on its website, stating Banks’ association with the university began in the 1980s when he was “instrumental” in forming the university’s music program as a faculty member and program chair.
“He remained a great supporter of the program and frequently spoke to students, sharing his insights and experiences and encouraging the next generation of musicians,” the statement read.
“Tommy Banks’ granddaughter, Mallory Chipman, is a graduate of the MacEwan music program and now serves as a faculty member in the department he helped create. His legacy will live on.”
Watch below: In this June 2014 interview, Gord Steinke sat down with Tommie Gallie and Tommy Banks, as a musical foundation recognized blues artists past and present.
Banks’ family issued a statement and said details on a memorial would be released at a later date.
“As a family, we admired our father, grandfather and husband and his many contributions to the Canadian musical community,” the family statement read.
“We are equally proud and grateful for how sincerely he loved and cherished his family. The void that is left by his passing will now be filled with wonderful memories and beautiful music: both noble legacies. The family wishes to thank those who reached out to support us during this difficult time.”
Other people, including Mayor Don Iveson and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, took to social media to share their thoughts.
Edmonton’s ATB building was going to be lit up like piano keys Friday night in Banks’ honour.
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