Big bands are Michael’s passion – having founded Strictly Smokin’ Big Band in 2003 the band now works regularly across the UK and has performed with a host of jazz ‘A’ listers including: Claire Martin, Mike Lovatt, Joe Stilgoe, Bruce Adams, Paul Booth, Alan Barnes, Mark Nightingale and more.

Along with performance, Michael works regularly as a composer/ arranger working for a number of artists including Cattle & Cane, Smoove & Turrell and RJ Thompson.

Michael also runs Northern Orchestra, which works as a project ensemble across the country playing both public and private engagements.

Michael also arranges for the band, and is currently working on the charts for the band’s upcoming album featuring a number of special guests.

Check out his blogs written for Strictly Smokin:
– Remote Big Bands [click]
– UK Jazz Blogs [click]
– Picture of the Day [click]
– Thinking of live music for your event? 10 reasons to book… [click]
– Big Bands in the Time of Covid-19 [click]