Byron Wallen

Raised in a musical environment, Byron studied classical piano from an early age. He also studied trumpet with Jimmy Owens, Donald Byrd and Jon Faddis in New York. He studied and graduated with a degree in Psychology, Philosophy and Maths from Sussex University. During this period, he recorded for Loose Ends and Cleveland Watkiss and played trumpet in a variety of musical settings; with Mervyn Africa, The Style Council, Charles Earland, Courtney Pine and Jean Toussaint. One of the most dynamic and versatile jazz voices currently on the British scene, Byron has performed with rap outfits such as The Roots, Digable Planets and US3. His trumpet has appeared alongside African pioneers such as Hugh Masekela, Manu Dibango and Ammonpondo. He has also worked with Lonnie Liston Smith, Ronnie Laws and Chaka Khan.

Byron is firmly routed in the jazz tradition, he has toured with David Murray, performed with Ralph Moore, Billy Higgins, Butch Morris, Eddie Henderson, Wynton Marsalis, Herlin Riley and Freddie Hubbard. He has recorded with George Benson, Brice Wassy, and has toured the world with Incognito. A powerful composer, Byron Wallen's intuitive and spiritual leaning shine through his "Tarot Suite", an enticing piece of music that draws inspiration from the symbols and imagery of the tarot cards. It's world premiere received rave reviews from the British press with Byron being heralded as "The most interesting new explorer of Miles Davis' legacy" (The Guardian). The twenty-two-piece suite is written for ten musicians. The band toured England where their unique blend of sound and performance enthralled audiences.