Jazz lovers packed the Kampala Serena Hotel Saturday night for the first dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival. Grammy winner Kirk Whalum played his saxophone alongside Ugandan star Isaiah Katumwa. Tshaka Mayanja performed with his Black Roots Academy of Soul band. The crowd cheered after each song, often standing to applaud the musicians. Many fans swayed as melody filled the elegant venue.
The bank sponsored this music celebration as part of its 60-year history of supporting arts in Uganda. Helena Mayanja from dfcu Bank spoke about music connecting people across different backgrounds. Isaiah Katumwa called jazz more than music, but a movement that brings communities together. His songs Home Away and Sunrise made people dance throughout the night. Kirk Whalum amazed everyone with skills gained from playing with Whitney Houston.
This festival helps make Kampala important in global jazz circles. The night mixed international talent with local musicians on one stage. People left feeling the music would stay with them for days. Uganda showed it can host world-class musical events that celebrate culture. The success points toward more jazz festivals coming to the Pearl of Africa.
The bank sponsored this music celebration as part of its 60-year history of supporting arts in Uganda. Helena Mayanja from dfcu Bank spoke about music connecting people across different backgrounds. Isaiah Katumwa called jazz more than music, but a movement that brings communities together. His songs Home Away and Sunrise made people dance throughout the night. Kirk Whalum amazed everyone with skills gained from playing with Whitney Houston.
This festival helps make Kampala important in global jazz circles. The night mixed international talent with local musicians on one stage. People left feeling the music would stay with them for days. Uganda showed it can host world-class musical events that celebrate culture. The success points toward more jazz festivals coming to the Pearl of Africa.
