Ugo Nwakanma

Biography

School: Cambridge High School
ASO Instructor: Dr. Bill Mann   
Other Musical Affiliations: Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony  
Summer Camps: Governor's Honors Program (GHP) 60' (summer of 2023), Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI) (summer of 2024) 

Ugo Nwakanma is a senior trombonist at Cambridge High School in Milton, Georgia. He began his trombone journey in 6th grade and joined the Talent Development Program in 2022. Under the instruction of acting principal trombonist Nathan Zgonc and currently studying with Dr. Bill Mann, associate professor of Trombone at Georgia State University and 2nd trombone with the Atlanta Ballet, Des Moines Symphony, and Columbus Symphony, Ugo has developed a strong and versatile musical foundation. 

During the summer, Ugo has participated in a variety of prestigious programs including the South Fulton Jazz Camp with clinician Ronald Carter, the Georgia Governor’s Honors Program, the Boston University Tanglewood Institute Trombone workshop with Professor Don Lucas, Dr. Shafer, and Dr. Virgilio, and the Young Artist’s Orchestra program. He also plays a key role in his high school’s Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band, and Pep Band. 

Ugo has consistently excelled in his musical pursuits. Since 2021, he has received superior ratings in the GMEA Solo and Ensemble event each year, both as a soloist and in ensemble performances. He has earned first chair in the District 5 Honor Band every year since 2021 and has performed with the Fulton County Honor Band, securing 2nd chair in 2022, 1st chair in 2023, and 2nd chair on Euphonium in 2024. His achievements in the GMEA All-State Band and Orchestra include 2nd chair in the digital VASE All-State Band in 2021, 2nd chair in Concert Band and Full Orchestra in 2022 and 2023, and 1st chair in Full Orchestra in 2024. 

Ugo is also a member of the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony under the baton of Dr. Scott A. Stewart and has earned accolades for his jazz performances, including an Outstanding Soloist award at the Essentially Ellington Jazz Festival and participation in the Charles Mingus Jazz Festival. He has performed at notable events such as the GMEA conference in 2024, Band of America in Maryland, and the Southeastern Regional Concert Festival with Cambridge High School. 

Beyond his musical achievements, Ugo is known for his kindness, intelligence, and humor. He is actively involved in his church’s production team, the French Honor Society, and the National Honor Society. 

One of Ugo's favorite TDP memories is the conducting masterclass with Tamara Dworetz and the experience of composer Carlos Simon curating a program for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra that included the Spelman and Morehouse College Glee Clubs at Atlanta Symphony Hall.