Vibraphonist, Michael Benedict is the leader of JAZZ VIBES. His band plays jazz standards, original compositions and Brazilian influenced jazz.

Michael received a Bachelor’s degree in music education from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from Rutgers University. He has toured the United States extensively, performing at numerous concert halls, colleges, clubs, and festivals and has performed in Europe. In 2012, Michael went on a US State Department tour of Tunisia, Africa where he taught and performed with the Planet Arts Trio.

Michael has released six recordings to date. His album, CIRCULATION, was an Editor’s pick in Downbeat Magazine and listed as one of the “Best Jazz Albums of 2015” by National Public Radio. Michael was twice nominated for “Jazz Musician of the Year” by the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards (The Eddies).

His newest album, “1-2-3 GO!”, earned him the Local Hero Award for Best Local/Regional Release by J. Hunter, a reviewer for www.nippertown.com. Michael recently won an award for “Best Jazz Musician of the Year for 2023” given by WCDB Radio, SUNY Albany, 90.9FM.

This concert is sponsored by the Music Performance Trust Fund in celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month throughout the Capital Region.