Brandon Woody

Performing Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 3:30 PM — Bijou Stage with the Obasi Akoto Quintet

Brandon Woody is a Baltimore-based trumpeter whose powerful sound, deep sense of groove, and community-rooted artistry have made him one of the most compelling voices of his generation. Known for blending hard bop, gospel, funk, and contemporary jazz influences, Woody brings a bold, expressive approach to the trumpet that is both technically commanding and emotionally resonant. His playing reflects a strong connection to the Black American musical tradition while remaining firmly grounded in the present.

A graduate of the Baltimore School for the Arts and a former member of the Peabody Institute’s Preparatory and Conservatory programs, Woody has built his career through both formal training and hands-on experience within Baltimore’s vibrant jazz scene. He is the founder and bandleader of UPENDO, an ensemble that emphasizes collective improvisation, original compositions, and music as a vehicle for joy, healing, and social connection. Through UPENDO and his solo work, Woody has earned national attention for performances that are energetic, soulful, and deeply engaging.

In addition to leading his own projects, Brandon Woody is a highly sought-after collaborator, performing with artists such as Terri Lyne Carrington, BADBADNOTGOOD, Danilo Pérez, Casey Benjamin, Marcus Gilmore, the Robert Glasper Black Radio Orchestra, Paul Russell, Derrick Hodge, Marc Cary, Solange Knowles, and many other leading figures in contemporary jazz. His work has been featured at major venues and festivals across the country, and he is widely recognized not only for his musicianship but also for his commitment to mentorship, education, and community-building through music.

As part of the Obasi Akoto Quintet, Brandon Woody contributes his distinctive trumpet voice to a dynamic ensemble that brings together some of the most respected musicians on today’s jazz scene. His presence adds fire, lyricism, and forward momentum, making each performance a powerful exploration of modern jazz rooted in tradition and driven by collective expression.