Renowned Detroit trumpet player Marcus Belgrave passed away on Saturday. The musician hailed from Chester, Pennsylvania and began his career playing with Ray Charles’ band. He settled in Detroit back in the 60’s. Belgrave was passionate about teaching young musicians. He played with the tonight show band, Wynton Marsalis and Charles Mingus. Last year, Belgrave’s custom-made trumpet was stolen from his car while it was parked in Eastern Market. The instrument was found at Zeidman’s pawn shop just a few blocks away. Belgrave suffered from health issues and was hospitalized in April. He was 78. No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.
