He was one of the central figures of the GDR jazz scene, his playing recognizable among thousands. Now the great saxophonist Manfred Hering has died.

His long-time companion Joe Sachse described him as one of the "best musical friends I ever had." Together, they played in numerous formations over decades and had a decisive influence on the international recognition of the free jazz scene in the GDR. Their joint opening concert at the first edition of the Leipzig Jazz Days in 1976 remains legendary to this day. He remained closely associated with the festival throughout his life.

Hering, who lived in Wurzen near Leipzig, remained musically active until the end. Many people fondly remember his joint performance with Sachse and Heiner Reinhardt at the Störenfriede Festival in the German National Library in September 2024. A performance with the Manfred Schulze Wind Quintet was also planned for January 2026. But it was not to be.

To mark his passing, LeipJAZZig e.V. is organizing a memorial concert for Manfred Hering with many of his companions. This is a great opportunity to say goodbye to the gifted improviser, to whom the German jazz scene owes so much.