Canadian Jazz Legend Rob McConnell Dies

jazz obituaries, Canada

Rob McConnell
1935 – 2010

McConnell Renowned for Work With Boss Brass

Canada loses another jazz legend with the death of valve trombonist Rob McConnell, who died of cancer in a Toronto hospital on Sunday, May 1. The internationally renowned musician and bandleader who best known for his work with Boss Brass, was 75.

Musician, composer, arranger, educator and recording artist Rob McConnell was a household name in Canada, his professional career beginning in the 1950s. He formed the Boss Brass in the late 60s, the ensemble going on to receive multiple Grammy nominations and a win for Best Jazz Big Band in 1984. The group also captured three JUNO Awards and appeared with multiple jazz legends through the decades such as Mel Torme, Moe Koffman, Ed Bickert, Don Thompson and Guido Basso, to name a few.

Rob McConnell was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1997 and was received the Order of Canada in 1998.