Jazz musician Donald Byrd passes away

Jazz musician and legendary trumpeter, Donald Byrd has died at 80 years of age.

Rumours had circulated online for days but Byrd’s death was finally confirmed last night by his nephew Alex Bugnon.

Byrd is said to have died on Monday (4 February) at his home in New Jersey. Cause of death is yet unknown.

Bugnon said in a statement about his uncle:

“Let’s remember Donald as a one of a kind pioneer of the trumpet, of the many styles of music he took on, of music education. In sum, Donald was an avid, eternal student of music, until his death. That’s what I try to be, everyday!! Rest in peace, uncle!”

Our thoughts are with Byrd’s friends and family at this time.