Mike Kaupa Jazzes Up Spain: A Musical Sojourn

In a musical expedition to Spain last February, acclaimed Jazz Trumpet player Mike Kaupa took center stage as the guest soloist with the Conservatorio Superior de Musica de Navarra (CSMN) in Pamplona. Demonstrating his expertise, Kaupa conducted multiple master classes at CSMN and the Musikene School in San Sebastian, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant Spanish jazz scene.

During his visit, Kaupa collaborated with the CSMN big band, a group formed in 2005 as part of the Jazz Department’s curriculum. This ensemble, comprising top-tier students from various instruments, created an annual video featuring a guest artist – this year, the spotlight was on Kaupa.

Not only did Kaupa contribute to the CSMN big band’s video project, but he also gave memorable performances at iconic venues such as Civibox and Civican in Pamplona and the UPNA Jazz Festival. His collaborations extended to working with notable musicians like trombonist Marshall Gilkes, singers Sabine Kuehlich, Elisabetta Antonini, and Deborah Carter, among others.

Kaupa’s musical journey didn’t end there; he continued to make a mark at the Musikene Conservatory in San Sebastián, where he conducted a jazz trumpet master class. His visit to Spain was not just about performances; Kaupa and his wife took the opportunity to explore, teach, and record, showcasing his commitment to music education and artistic expression.

For a taste of Kaupa’s Spanish sojourn, you can listen to about an hour’s worth of jazz standards recorded during his visit here. His dedication to teaching and performing solidifies Mike’s position as a global jazz ambassador.