Trumpet legend Clark Terry in hospice care

Trumpeter Clark Terry, considered by Dizzy Gillespie as the greatest trumpeter ever, has now entered hospice care aged 94 after failing health.

Published 16th Feb 2015

Trumpeter and flügelhorn player Clark Terry, considered by Dizzy Gillespie as the greatest trumpeter ever and idolised by Quincy Jones, has now entered hospice care. Terry’s health has been failing for several years due to diabetes. He is 94 and his family are asking for prayers.

Clark Terry came out of St. Louis, Missouri, and is renowned for his playing with Count Basie and Duke Ellington, one of very few players who have been in both orchestras.

Terry has been a passionate jazz educator saying, ”Teaching jazz allows me to play a part in making dreams come true for aspiring musicians.” As we reported in October his recent mentorship of 23-year-old blind pianist Justin Kauflin is the subject of the documentary film ‘Keep on Keepin' On’, produced by and featuring Quincy Jones. The film won two awards at the Tribeca Film Festival and was shortlisted for an Oscar. Quincy Jones has also produced the latest album form Kauflin called ‘Dedication’ which pays tribute to Clark Terry.