August 7, 1963

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Pianist and composer Marcus Roberts was born on August 7th, 1963 in Jacksonville, Florida.

Roberts, who lost his sight at the age of five, began teaching himself piano at a young age.

In 1986, he joined the band of the legendary trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, where he first gained recognition.

Roberts has led and recorded with a wide variety of bands, including duets, trios, big bands, and symphony orchestras.

Marcus soon began releasing solo albums documenting his own walking bass-reliant style and has become renowned for his interpretations of greats such as Morton, Ellington, Monk, and Gershwin.

Marcus Roberts currently holds a position as an Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at Florida State University.

Marcus Roberts has featured live at Marciac 2009 performing “Country by Choice”, a tune from his album “The Truth is Spoken Here.” 

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