John Surman, a seminal figure in European jazz, is a multi-instrumentalist and composer renowned for his work on saxophone, clarinet, and synthesizer. With a career spanning over five decades, Surman has been a pivotal force in expanding the international horizons of jazz, blending elements of free jazz, modal jazz, and folk music into his unique sound. His compositions have graced dance performances and film soundtracks, showcasing his versatility and depth as an artist. In addition to his jazz contributions, Surman has also made significant strides in classical music, serving as a composer in residence with the Sarum Chamber Orchestra. As he approaches his 80th birthday, Surman announced his retirement from touring, marking the end of an era for this legendary musician.