A giant of free improvisation, pianist Keith Tippett has died aged 72. The news was posted on his official Facebook page although no further details were given. Tippett emerged on the London scene in the late 1960s with his sextet and most notably his 50-piece ensemble Centipede. He collaborated with the South African exiles the Blue Notes and influential groups he was associated with includes Ovary Lodge, the group that also included his wife Julie Tippetts. He also appeared on several albums by King Crimson.