Over the last decade composer, trumpeter, bandleader, and educator Mark Kavuma has established a reputation as an influential figure, equally at home performing at the cutting edge of the vibrant London nu-jazz scene as he is teaching and mentoring emergent talent in the community and in educational establishments. He has released six albums as leader featuring his original compositions: Kavuma (2018, Ubuntu), voted among the best albums of the year by DownBeat magazine, The Banger Factory (2019, Ubuntu) and in 2021, he set up a record label Banger Factory Records and released Arashi No Ato (2021) Back-to-Back (2022, debut piano record), The Banger Factory - Warriors (2022) and Erskine & Kavuma - Ultrasound (2023).
His aspiration for the Banger Factory (a collective curated by Mark and consisting of some of the brightest lights from the current crop of UK jazz musicians) and Banger Factory Records is that they will provide a platform for emergent artists that empowers them to hone and finesse their craft and to innovate, flourish and realise their full artistic potential, ultimately shaping the future of music beyond genres, genders, and borders.
As a performer, Kavuma is renowned for his unique, distinctive trumpet sound. His lyricism, soulful tone and graceful technique spread infectious joy and mutual excitement among audiences and fellow musicians. His evolving compositional flair immerses fellow band members in the vibrant, contemporary world of colour, texture, and harmony that epitomises his musical style.
A gifted educator and inspirational creative enabler, Mark is an associate music leader for the Tomorrow’s Warriors programme and is also involved in their professional performance ensembles including the acclaimed Nu Civilisation Orchestra, Jazz Jamaica Small Band, and Jazz Jamaica All Stars. He is also a brass tutor and leader at London based carnival band Kinetika Bloco and released their debut album Legacy (2022) on his label.
Photographer: Ben Amure
Musician: Mark Samuel Kavuma