About
A Montrealer, born and raised, Mike Bruzzese was surrounded by music at an early age, and began playing guitar at the age of 12. An interest and passion for Jazz Guitar emerged at the age of 17, where he studied the art at Vanier College, studying with Montreal guitarist Nick Di Tomaso and winning the J.L Big Band Scholarship. Mike went on to earn a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from McGill University, studying with Carlos Jiménez and André White. In 2022, he completed his Master’s degree at McGill’s Schulich School of Music, where he continued to refine his craft under the guidance of Michel Lambert.
An active figure in Montreal’s vibrant music scene, Mike performs regularly both as a bandleader and a sought-after sideman. He has also appeared at prominent jazz venues across Canada. His performance and recording credits include collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Ben Solomon, Davis Whitfield, Miki Yamanaka, Emilio Modeste, Terry Clarke, André White, Kevin Dean, Ira Coleman, Caity Gyorgy, Laura Anglade, among many others.
Being a regular performer over the years at Upstairs Jazz bar and Grill, Michael Bruzzese led a series of tribute projects to jazz legends such as Sonny Clark, Tadd Dameron, Horace Silver, Lee Morgan and Kenny Dorham. Michael has also led many gigs, playing his own original music, and has composed dozens of his own works over the last few years.
Mike assembled a talented quartet for his debut album "Even When I'm Dreaming". It features award winning pianist, Gentiane MG, jazz legend, Ira Coleman, on bass, drum master Michel Lambert and Juno award winning vocalist, Caity Gyorgy. Mike is finding new ways to bring his music to life. This group explores groove, swing, and rubato pieces, and showcases his harmonic, melodic and compositional voice.
