The Kampala Serena Hotel resonated with the soulful strains of jazz on Saturday, May 10, 2025, as the inaugural dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival unfolded in a spectacular debut.
Headlined by legendary saxophonists Kirk Whalum and Uganda’s own Isaiah Katumwa, the sold-out concert was a melting pot of musical artistry, sophisticated elegance, and unforgettable memories for jazz aficionados, Uganda’s cultural elite, and a host of distinguished guests. The evening unequivocally raised the bar for live musical experiences in the region.
The festival’s opening notes were struck by the vibrant energy of the Black Roots Academy of Soul, followed by a captivating performance from jazz veteran Tshaka Mayanja. Together, they laid a rich foundation their masterful instrumentation and renditions of timeless classics serving as a heartfelt homage to the giants of global jazz and R&B.
A palpable wave of excitement washed over the audience as Uganda’s celebrated saxophonist, Isaiah Katumwa, graced the stage, returning from the United States.
His signature sound filled the hall, culminating in a rousing performance of his beloved hit, “My Joy.” Amidst the cheers and dancing, Katumwa shared poignant reflections on his homecoming and the approaching milestone of his 30th year in jazz.
“This festival is a homecoming in more ways than one,” Katumwa expressed, his voice thick with emotion. “I extend my deepest gratitude to dfcu Bank for providing this incredible platform after six years away and for their unwavering support as I prepare to celebrate three decades dedicated to jazz.”
As the night deepened, anticipation reached its peak for the arrival of Grammy Award-winning American saxophonist Kirk Whalum.
His performance was nothing short of soul-stirring—a masterful tapestry woven from classic jazz melodies, the heartfelt emotion of gospel, and compelling storytelling through his instrument.
Whalum held the audience spellbound, culminating in a powerful worship session just before midnight that earned a resounding standing ovation, underscoring the profound spiritual and cultural impact of the evening.
“The warmth of Kampala’s welcome has been truly overwhelming,” Whalum shared, his sincerity evident. “It’s an honor to perform here once again, and I am deeply grateful to dfcu Bank for making this extraordinary night a reality.”
Beyond the captivating performances, the festival was an immersive experience in refined elegance. Guests, adorned in glamorous attire, mingled within the sophisticated ambiance of the Serena Hotel, engaging with thoughtfully curated lifestyle experiences that elevated the evening beyond a concert into a premium cultural affair.
Charles Mudiwa, CEO of dfcu Bank, articulated the bank’s vision for the festival as a vibrant celebration of both artistic excellence and lifestyle.
“At dfcu, our commitment extends beyond banking to creating experiences that truly inspire,” Mudiwa stated. “The dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival serves as a powerful connector, bringing people together through the universal language of music, fostering community, and celebrating shared joy.”
With enthusiastic plans already in motion for its return in 2026, the dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival is poised to become a highly anticipated and enduring fixture on Uganda’s cultural calendar—promising to deliver world-class talent and create unforgettable experiences for audiences for years to come.