Gunter Hampel, German Free Jazz Pioneer, Dies at 88 (faz.net)

• Gunter Hampel, German jazz pioneer, dies at 88.
• He emancipated European jazz from American influence.
• Collaborated with Cecil Taylor and Anthony Braxton in New York.

"German jazz musician Gunter Hampel has died at age 88. He was a key figure in the European jazz avant-garde, helping to emancipate it from American influences. Hampel played vibraphone, bass clarinet, saxophone, and flute. In the 1960s, he moved to New York and collaborated with Cecil Taylor and Anthony Braxton. His style blended free improvisation with melodic elements. He leaves a significant body of work."