Biography

Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kevin Brewster is a saxophonist, composer, and educator whose musical journey is deeply rooted in the vibrant traditions of Gospel music. His repertoire is a fusion of contemporary, straight-ahead, gospel, and R&B that herald a new era/bring a new vision for jazz characterized by authenticity, resilience, and unwavering faith. In 2023, Kevin founded his group, "Black Renaissance," a collective dedicated to propelling the narrative of Black American Music into new uncharted territories. Together, they have become a sought-after feature, performing regularly as headliners at Blue Llama Jazz Club, Cliff Bells, Dabney and Co, GRNoir, and other venues in Michigan. Recently graduating from Michigan State University with a BM in Jazz Studies , Kevin has grown tremendously under the mentorship of educators Walter Blanding Jr. and Rodney Whitaker. Kevin’s musical education has been enriched by encounters with jazz artists such as Bob Nixon, Diego Rivera, and Vincent Herring, each leaving an outstanding mark on his artistic development. Kevin has had the honor of participating in the prestigious programs that include the donor-funded 2024 JAS Academy featuring Artistic Director Christian Mcbride, the Gathering Nonet Jazz ensemble, an outreach program formed by the late great Detroit jazz pianist Geri Allen, and the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra directed by Gerald Clayton. Kevin has played alongside distinguished artists such as Terri Lyne Carrington, Patrice Rushen, Jazzmeia Horn, Christian Sands, and Immanuel Wilkins through these programs. Kevin is beginning his graduate studies at John Hopkins Peabody Conservatory. Selected as one of three recipients of the Graduate Jazz Fellowship, Kevin looks forward to continuing his growth as a musician, leader, and educator under the mentorship of Sean Jones and Tim Green.