The David Adewumi Quintet delivered a memorable evening of music grounded in heritage, connection, and the rich legacy of jazz. An award-winning trumpeter, composer, and educator, Adewumi honors generations of Black improvisers while bringing a compelling contemporary voice to the tradition.

Raised in a Nigerian family in New Hampshire, Adewumi studied at New England Conservatory and The Juilliard School, with additional training through Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead, the Banff Centre, and Harvard University. He became the first jazz musician and trumpeter to receive the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans and won the 2019 Carmine Caruso International Jazz Trumpet Competition. His career has taken him to stages around the world and into collaborations with acclaimed artists including Jason Moran and Dave Douglas.

The evening’s speakers added thoughtful context to the performance. A Tribe for Jazz Executive Director Stephanie Matthews welcomed guests and set the tone for the night. Upper Arlington Mayor Ukeme Awakessien Jeter reflected on her Nigerian heritage and called on us to open our minds and hearts to one another. Perla Martinez of Franklin County EECD spoke about the vital role of arts and culture and celebrated our new partnership. Cantor Bat-Ami Moses of Temple Israel offered reflections on love, belonging, and tribe, while jazz historian and Ohio State professor Ted McDaniel traced the storied legacy of jazz trumpet—from its pioneering voices to the artistry of David Adewumi today.

Together, their words and the quintet’s music made the evening more than a concert: it was a celebration of cultural identity, artistic legacy, and our capacity to find connection through music.

• David Adewumi — Trumpet

• Sasha Berliner — Vibraphone

• Lex Korten — Piano

• Gervis Myles — Bass

• Evan Hyde — Drums