Klaus Doldinger, the celebrated German saxophonist and film composer, passed away on October 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Doldinger was widely recognized for his contribution to jazz music and for composing memorable film scores, particularly for his longtime collaborator, German filmmaker Wolfgang Petersen. His legacy as one of Germany’s most influential jazz musicians and composers has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born on May 12, 1936, in Berlin, Germany, Doldinger showed an early interest in music, entering a Düsseldorf conservatory in 1947. Initially studying piano, he soon shifted his focus to clarinet, graduating in 1957. By the age of 17, Doldinger had already begun performing professionally. In 1953, he joined the German Dixieland band The Feetwarmers, recording with them two years later. His musical career blossomed further when, in 1955, he founded Oscar’s Trio, inspired by the work of jazz legend Oscar Peterson.
Throughout the 1960s, Doldinger built his reputation as a tenor saxophonist, performing with prominent American jazz musicians and beat groups such as Ian and the Zodiacs. His versatility and musical talents were evident, making him one of Germany’s foremost jazz figures by the end of the decade.
The Rise of Passport and Continued Success
In 1971, Doldinger founded Passport (originally known as Klaus Doldinger’s Passport), a jazz group that would become a staple in the German music scene. Often compared to Weather Report, the band was known for its experimental approach to jazz fusion. Over the years, Passport included a variety of talented musicians, such as Peter O’Mara (guitar), Roberto DiGioia (keyboards), and Patrick Scales (bass), with members shifting as the group evolved.
Despite changes in personnel, Passport continued to enjoy success throughout Doldinger’s career, and the group remained influential in Europe. The band’s first true album, which saw contributions from members of the German progressive rock band Amon Düül II, is still highly regarded in jazz circles.
Film Scores and Iconic Contributions
Doldinger’s work as a film composer further cemented his place in music history. He composed scores for several highly regarded films, including the German-U-boat thriller Das Boot (1981) and the beloved fantasy film The NeverEnding Story (1984), directed by Wolfgang Petersen. These film scores became iconic, contributing to the success and impact of their respective films.
In addition to his work with Petersen, Doldinger also composed the musical theme for the long-running German-Austrian-Swiss crime series Tatort, a show that has become a staple in German television.
Personal Life and Later Years
In 1960, Doldinger married Inge Beck, and together they had three children: Viola, Melanie, and Nicolas. The family settled in Icking, a peaceful Bavarian village south of Munich, in 1968. Doldinger’s personal life remained relatively private, though his passion for music and his contributions to German cultural heritage were well known.
In 2022, Doldinger released his autobiography, Made in Germany, offering fans and readers a glimpse into his extraordinary life and career.
Legacy and Final Days
Doldinger’s contributions to both jazz and film music have left a lasting impact. He was awarded the prestigious 1997 Bavarian Film Award (Honorary Award) for his achievements in the music industry, and his work continues to inspire musicians and composers around the world. As a pioneering figure in German jazz, Doldinger’s unique style and dedication to his craft earned him respect both at home and abroad.
Klaus Doldinger’s death on October 16, 2025, marks the end of an era in German jazz and film music. He was 89 years old at the time of his passing. His work with Passport, his unforgettable film scores, and his influence on the global music scene will continue to resonate with generations to come.
Selected Film and Television Scores
- Negresco (1968)
- The Naughty Cheerleader (1970)
- Baal (1970)
- Tatort (1970–)
- Das Boot (1981)
- The NeverEnding Story (1984; with Giorgio Moroder)
- Palmetto (1998)
- Salt on Our Skin (1992)
Klaus Doldinger will forever be remembered as a master of the saxophone and a composer whose music transcended genres and boundaries. His legacy is not only in the music he created but also in the unforgettable moments he provided through his scores for some of the most iconic films of the 20th century.
