TRIBUTES have been paid to a talented Oxford musician who died after falling from a window.

Saxophonist and keyboard player Matthew Carr, who grew up in the city, died from multiple injuries after falling three storeys from his home in Harrogate last month.

The former North Hinksey Primary School pupil was known for busking in Oxford and he played in the band Ouch! with his father Ian.

The 23-year-old’s family said he had been into music from an early age and his favourite instrument was the alto saxophone.

They have asked for donations to be made to Youth Music and said in a statement on the charity’s website: “Whether busking in Oxford, performing with the Oxford Schools’ Orchestra, playing in a band with his father or with his mates, his heart lay with the sax.”

Mr Carr, a winner of Christopher Norton’s Young Composer’s Competition, performed one of his blues compositions at Trinity College of Music in Greenwich when he was 15.

Oxford Jazz Festival organiser Max Mason last night paid tribute to the musician.

He said: “He was a fantastic erudite player. Just brilliant. His level of lyrical ability with the sax was incredible.

“He played it and told a story.”

A Facebook group has been set up in his memory.

One user, Richard ‘Ron’ Crosby, said: “Extremely talented and nice guy. Tragic loss.”

Mr Carr died in Harrogate District Hospital after the fall at his home on June 19.

His family added: “There were many other sides to Matt.

“He was a fine footballer, cricketer, a great mate, a loving son and a kind, supportive brother.

“But music was the cornerstone of his life, so much so that he was planning to go to Leeds College of Music to further his musical journey.”

North Yorkshire Police spokesman Martyn Renton said: “Police have carried out a full examination of the scene of the incident and following initial enquiries, believe there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident.”

Mr Carr’s funeral was held on Friday, July 1, at St Michael’s Parish Church in Cumnor. An inquest was opened and adjourned on June 23 and there will be a full hearing into the circumstances at a later date.

bwilkinson@oxfordmail.co.uk