Harold Betters, Pittsburgh’s “Mr. Trombone”, Dies At 92

Pittsburgh jazz legend Harold Betters died on Sunday, October 11, 2020, at the age of 92. Known throughout Pittsburgh and the world, “Mr. Trombone” was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania. After studying at Ithaca College and performing in the 308th U. S. Army band, Betters moved to Boston to start a family and joined the touring shows of Dick Gregory as well as the Ray Charles Orchestra.

Not fond of the touring life, Betters moved back to Pittsburgh in the 1960s where he became a staple of the Pittsburgh music scene. While enjoying a long performing career, Betters worked with musicians such as Slide Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, and Sonny Rollins among others. His over 10 solo albums are a testament to his longevity in the jazz and trombone world.

Click here to read the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s obituary of jazz trombonist Harold Betters.