Mike Benjamin

Mike Benjamin played bassoon for Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and the Oak Ridge Symphony Orchestra since his 20's.  In recent years his focus shifted to the piano collaborating with numerous jazz groups including Johnson Swingtet, the Brad Walker Orchestra, and Rosewood Trio.  Benjamin has been the pianist and a core member of Swingbooty since 2020.

With Swingbooty, he has appeared in ten video releases and is presently working with the band to produce its third LP release.  Pianist Mike Benjamin draws from influences like Oscar Peterson and Duke Ellington to bring playfulness and precision to Swingbooty’s sound. His improvisations are known for their clever musical references and unexpected twists, offering a captivating tapestry of rhythm and melody.

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