Godfrey Lubuulwa
Godfrey is a Ugandan jazz composer, performer, multi-instrumentalist, and scholar pursuing a PhD in Jazz Studies at the University of Pittsburgh. He holds dual Master of Music degrees from the University of Michigan in Music Education and Improvisation.
Godfrey’s work explores the fusion of Ugandan indigenous musical traditions with global influences, with a focus on the role of music in shaping identity, community, and social discourse. His research examines how musical practices intersect with power relations and gender dynamics within Uganda’s music education and performance contexts.
As a performer and composer, Godfrey integrates traditional instruments such as the engoma (drums), endingidi (tube fiddle), entongoli (lyre), amadinda (xylophones), and akoogo (thumb piano) with Western instruments like the accordion, piano, guitars, and percussion. His sound is both rooted and experimental, reflecting a post-modern, multicultural fusion.
Godfrey believes that tradition is a living force. By bringing indigenous Ugandan sounds into conversation with global genres, he creates music that challenges, heals, and inspires wide audiences.