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June 15.2025

2 Minutes Read

Marcus Lewis: Elevating Jazz and Community Spirit in Kansas City

Talented trombonist performing passionately in Kansas City

Marcus Lewis: A Journey Through Jazz and Community

Marcus Lewis, renowned jazz trombonist and bandleader, is making waves in Kansas City, where he teaches at UMKC and performs with his band, Brass and Boujee. Originally from Waynesboro, Georgia, Marcus found his musical calling early in life and later honed his skills in New York City. But it was his journey back to Georgia and subsequent collaboration with iconic artists like Janelle Monae that truly shaped his career.

Finding Home in Kansas City

Kansas City has embraced Marcus in a way that feels both intimate and expansive. "Kansas City is an amazing city; it feels small where everyone is connected," he says, highlighting the city's vibrant music scene and artistic community. The blend of culinary excellence and artistic expression, particularly through events like First Fridays, makes Kansas City a dynamic backdrop for creative pursuits. Marcus appreciates how local restaurants actively support jazz and music, connecting different facets of culture and community.

A Musical Education

Marcus's role at UMKC allows him to share his love for music with aspiring artists. Having transitioned from a master class participant to an adjunct professor, he teaches trombone and arranging, contributing to the strong jazz lineage of the region. He understands the delicate balance of mentorship and learning, emphasizing the importance of practice. “If you don’t practice for three days, other people will start to know it,” Marcus chuckles, reminiscing on the necessity of daily dedication.

The Flow of Creation

Jazz is about finding a flow state—a moment where the music becomes transcendent. Marcus passionately discusses the pursuit of this experience, a chase that defines much of a jazz musician's life. It’s not just about performing; it’s about immersing oneself in the act of creation. This pursuit of artistry is not just personal—it’s something he hopes to instill in his students and through his performances at local festivals.

Celebrating Juneteenth

On June 21, Marcus Lewis will be performing at the Juneteenth Heritage Festival in Kansas City. This event is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of freedom and community, aligning perfectly with both Marcus’s values and his music philosophy. As he gears up for this performance, he reflects on the importance of events that celebrate culture and history, reinforcing the connection between music, community, and social progress.

With every note played and lesson taught, Marcus Lewis continues to enrich Kansas City's musical tapestry, proving that jazz is not only a genre but a vibrant thread in the fabric of community life.

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Marcus Lewis: Elevating Jazz and Community Spirit in Kansas City

Marcus Lewis: A Journey Through Jazz and Community

Finding Home in Kansas City

A Musical Education

The Flow of Creation

Celebrating Juneteenth

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