Marcus Printup (Trumpet, JLCO) was born and raised in Conyers, Georgia. His first musical experiences were hearing the sanctified and soulful Gospel music his parents (Ann and Bobby), grandparents (J.C.) and older sister (Angela) sang in church. While attending the University of North Florida on a music scholarship, he won the International Trumpet Guild Jazz Trumpet competition. In 1991, Printup’s life changed when he met his mentor, the great pianist Marcus Roberts, who introduced him to Wynton Marsalis. He subsequently joined Roberts as his road manager/understudy for 2 years. 1993 was a banner year for Printup. He performed for the first time with Marsalis in the latter’s collaboration with the New York City Ballet, “Jazz In Six Syncopated Movements” which led to Printup’s induction into the then Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. Also during this time, Printup was noticed by Jazz legend, Betty Carter. Ms. Carter invited Printup to be in her inaugural and prestigious “Betty Carter Jazz Ahead” group, performing in a series of concerts at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Printup has performed and or recorded with Marcus Roberts, Betty Carter, Dianne Reeves, Guru, Madeline Peyroux, Ted Nash, Dianne Schuur, Cyrus Chestnut, and Wycliffe Gordon, among many others. He has recorded over 15 records as a leader, including his most recent “Gentle Rain” (2020) featuring his wife, Riza Printup, on the Harp. He made a big screen appearance in the 1999 movie Playing by Heart and recorded on the film’s soundtrack. Education is extremely important to Printup, as he is an in-demand clinician teaching middle schools, high schools, and colleges across the U.S. and abroad. He also holds the position of Adjunct Professor of Music at Montclair State University. August 22nd has been declared “Marcus Printup Day” in his hometown of Conyers, Georgia.