TORONTO - Canadian jazz artist Moe Koffman, died Wednesday after an 18-month battle with cancer, according to a recent Reuters report. Koffman died at the age of 72.

Koffman, a flutist and saxophonist, was one of Canada's jazz institutions throughout a celebrated five-decade career in which he recorded dozens of albums and performed with legions of the music's greats.

During his career, Koffman performed and recorded with Jimmy Dorsey, Diana Krall, Oscar Peterson and Doc Severinsen. His music ranged from cool-toned bop to jazz interpretations of pop and classical material.

Before the 1958 release of his signature song "Swinging Shepherd Blues," Koffman spent time on the road working in big bands led by Dorsey and Charlie Barnet.

Koffman is survived by his wife, Gisele, sons Herbie, Larry and Elie and step-daughter Ilya.