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Michael Benedict was born in Rome, NY in 1957. The son of a drummer, he started playing the drums at age 10 and was performing professionally by age 15. Michael graduated from the Crane School of Music at the State University College at Potsdam, NY with a Bachelors Degree in Music Education. He went on to earn his Masters Degree from Rutgers University with a degree in Jazz Studies. As a jazz drummer and percussionist, Michael has performed with groups and individuals such as J.R. Monterose, the Spike Jones Orchestra, Loren Schoenberg, Pete Malinverni, Doc Scanlon, Leo Russo and the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra. Michael has toured the country extensively performing in jazz clubs, concert halls and colleges and universities. Michael also did a short tour in Europe with the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra. Michael has released two CDs as the leader of his new band, “Jazz Vibes” in which he plays the vibraphone. His first CD, “The New Beat” was featured in JAZZ IMPROV Magazine in the winter of 2007. Since 1990, Michael has taught at Greenville High School where he directs the HS Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble. |
