David Adewumi

Altus, a fusion of five gifted musicians, Dave Adewumi, Isaac Levien, Neta Raanan, Nathan Reising, and Ryan Sands, embarks on sonic journeys rooted in a decade-long musical bond. Inspired by Black American improvisational traditions, Altus creates narratives that blur the line between immediate experience and timeless mythologies.   

Their performances, marked by playfulness and narrative focus, promise a unique exploration into the unknown, fueled by a shared love for improvisation. Trumpeter Dave Adewumi and tenor saxophonist Neta Raanan (both recognized as Rising Stars in DownBeat Magazine) join forces with alto saxophone phenom Nathan Reising. Anchoring the ensemble are bassist and composer Isaac Levien and drummer Ryan Sands, endorsed by Canopus Drums and Paiste Cymbals.   

Individually, the members have shared stages with luminaries such as Jason Moran, Mary Halvorson, Dave Douglas, Nasheet Waits, Tyshawn Sorey, and Christian Sands. Collectively, Altus has performed at premier venues and festivals, including the Burlington Jazz Festival and the Festival of New Trumpet Music, earning recognition for their bold, narrative-driven sound.   

Beyond the stage, Altus is dedicated to education and community engagement. The ensemble regularly offers masterclasses for students ranging from middle school to conservatory, focusing on improvisation, ensemble interplay, and the social context of jazz. These sessions highlight the history of Black America and the music's role in the ongoing struggle for racial justice, underscoring jazz as a vehicle for freedom, identity, and shared expression.