Biography:

Mike Hackbert is the creative force behind Hackdaddy. His main influences are Smooth Jazz, Latin beats and Progressive Rock, with some Baroque, Classic and New Age elements thrown in as well. Mike has been accused of never finding an added-note chord he didn't like, and is fond of complex rhythms and time signatures. In 2012 the first Hackdaddy CD “Reflections” was released, a collection of mostly original Smooth and Latin Jazz tracks. A follow up Holiday-themed album "Blues for a Silent Night" was released in late 2013. Hackdaddy Music Programs began in 2014 and include Smooth Music (Smooth Jazz and Light Pop selections), Songbook Standards (showcasing Great American Songbook composers) and Holiday Favorites (traditional Christmas carols and popular Holiday songs).

Mike has been an active musician since the early '70s, when he began playing brass instruments and settled on the trumpet as a primary instrument. Mike was involved with a number of bands and ensembles in high school and college; his composing and arranging skills were honed in college and are still in use today. Mike’s ability to play in a variety of styles has him frequently playing with a diverse set of groups and shows.

As Hackdaddy, besides the aforementioned Music Programs, he also collaborates with other musicians globally. Recently Mike moved from Lake County, IL where he was a sought-after addition to Rock, Blues and Horn bands in NE IL/SE WI, was a charter member of Bill’s Little Big Band, and a frequent performer in area shows and events. Currently in Sun City West, AZ, Hackdaddy is already performing with the Sun City All Stars Big Band, the Rhythm Ramblers and other groups.

As Michael Hackbert, Trumpet, he plays in regional orchestras, ensembles and musical theatres. He served as Principal Trumpet for the Lake Geneva (WI) Symphony Orchestra for several seasons and performed regularly with FullScore Chamber Orchestra. In AZ Michael is the Principal Trumpet for the West Valley Wind Ensemble and plays cornet with the Desert Brass. He has played numerous musicals over the years, most recently with the PM&L Theatre in Antioch, IL. Please visit http://www.reverbnation.com/michaelhackberttrumpet for information about these activities.