LA native Michael Mayo is widely recognized for his extraordinary vocal range and clarity, moving seamlessly from a deep baritone to shimmering upper registers with ease. A graduate of the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance (now the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz), he was only the third vocalist accepted into the program’s history, studying under icons including Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. Mayo’s second full-length album, Fly, received two 2026 Grammy Award nominations (Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best Jazz Performance for the song "Four".)
Mayo’s versatility has made him a sought-after collaborator, recording and performing with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Terri Lyne Carrington, Jacob Collier, Lenny Kravitz, Josh Groban, Scary Pockets, Ben Wendel, and The War and Treaty. He has toured internationally, leading his own band at renowned jazz clubs and festivals around the world, and captivating audiences with his inventive use of live vocal layering and dynamic, emotionally resonant performances.
Presented by the Skidmore Department of Music.
Additional Info
This event is pay-what-you-will—while donations are optional, your contribution helps keep tickets accessible to all. Reserve up to 6 tickets per order. To request tickets for a class or group of 7 or more, please email Teresa Rockwell at trockwell@skidmore.edu.
Student tickets are free, Skidmore ID required at entry.