Big Bloom Festival

Kanysha

A versatile vocalist, songwriter, and actress, Kanysha (June 2026 Strathmore Artist in Residence) graduated from Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, DC, before studying at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and earning her Bachelor of Music from George Mason University. She has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and across the DC theater scene, including Arena Stage, Signature Theatre, and Round House Theatre. Kanysha’s original music, including the singles “Alive” and “Kiss Me,” is available on all streaming platforms. She also co-hosts the Downstage Center podcast and is an active music educator in the DC area.

The Crush Funk Brass Band

The Crush Funk Brass Band is a brilliant, innovative group of young musicians hailing from Washington, DC, comprised of alums from The University of The District of Columbia, Bowie State University, Howard University, VSU, UMBC, and IU.

Influenced by all genres of music, the band’s style is unique, embodying the brass tones of New Orleans, with an Urban Capital City modern pop-fun(k) twist.

The mission of the band is simple: “To bring life to the city through music where least expected, to enrich the lives of others, and to continue growing and striving for high musical excellence.”