Currently residing in Tampa Florida, Mike MacArthur has been performing, writing and arranging since his years in college at Florida State School of Music and Manhattan School of Music. After studying music in school, Mike took the tenor sax chair on the road with Maynard Ferguson. After touring the US, Asia, and Europe with Maynard, he hit the road with Grammy Award Winning vocalist Diane Schuur. Through his travels, Mike began to become friends and work with many artists which include Rick Braun, Brian Bromberg, Jeff Golub, Peter White, Frankie Valli, Craig Chaquico, Chieli Minucci, Rick Derringer, Roger Waters, Blake Aaron, Jeff Kashiwa, Roger Smith and many more. Mike released solo records “Paradise Point”, “Deal Me In”, That’s What I’m Talkin’ Bout” and “Live N’ Kickin” (feat. Roger Smith).


Born in Rochester, NY, Mike has had the pleasure of returning to his high school among many others to perform concerts and clinics for aspiring young musicians. Endorsements with Firebird Saxophones and Theo Wanne Mouthpieces allow Mike to continue this awesome opportunity to reach students and help to inspire them through his music.


Mike’s influences come from many styles of music. Saxophonists Cannonball Adderly, Paul Desmond, Michael Brecker, Stanley Turrentine, Charlie Parker, etc., all played a part in inspiring Mike at a young age. On the jazz side, artists such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, The Yellowjackets, Herbie Hancock, Thad Jones & Mel Lewis among many more continue to motivate Mike as a musician. Other artists Mike enjoys are Jamie Cullum, Sting, Steely Dan, James Brown and Tower of Power.


Approaching his music with fire and passion, Mike strives to become the best musician he can possibly be. Playing with other great players and performing for music lovers anywhere all play a role in becoming a solid musician that can tell a story with their music. Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.