Stan Barker (24 May 1926 – 2 July 1997) was an English jazz pianist born in Clitheroe, Lancashire, who enjoyed an international reputation.
Together they we formed a registered educational charity, called ‘Jazz College’ from 1980 – 1987 and were artists in residence at Southport Arts Centre where they conducted school workshops around Lancashire. Digby was busy with different solo projects whilst Stan toured music schools throughout Europe. He has taught in a variety of educational institutions, including the Royal Northern College of Music, the Belfast School of Music, Merseyside Arts, South Wales Art Association and the Southport Arts Centre.
During his career he performed regularly at top jazz clubs throughout the UK, Europe and America and made many recordings, the best-known being "Let's Duet", with Digby Fairweather.
Stan was best remembered for his "gentlemanly manners, uncanny ear for music and succinct improvisation," son Ken said. He was awarded an honorary master's degree from Manchester University, which was collected posthumously by his wife, Betty.
Barker died 2 July 1997, following a short illness at the age of 71.
(Scarce info edited from Wikipedia, National Jazz Archive & Lancashire Telegraph)