‘There’s [MISTER] MICHAEL McQUAID!’

Yes, that’s what I once whisper-yelled to my siblings during a concert, as recorded in my vignette. Too many thrills were happening for the first time last year: stepping on Iowan soil, greeting the Mississippi River, hearing live Bixian hot jazz, and meeting the very virtuoso—Mr. Michael McQuaid, specialist of the hot-jazziest reeds. Among my dearly considered yet unofficial “teachers,” whom I met in Davenport is the Australian gentleman, Mr. Michael McQuaid, a current resident of London. For many of the readers residing in the U.S., supposing that you’ve attended previous Bix festivals in IA, you might recall the rare, special occasion of him sitting in with the Graystone Monarchs, a Jean Goldkette/McKinney-styled big band—or as of 2024, with the Jazz-O-Maniacs, the Celebration Belle riverboat combo, and The New Wonders, a NYC septet. Or in the past ten years, you might’ve spotted Mr. McQuaid occasionally up in Chicago with the Cellar Boys during one of his vacations in America. If you’re unaware of his mellifluous reed-playing, it’s an urgent sine qua non to hear the “first-class jazz improviser,” as proclaimed (and still echoed) by Mr. Steinman of Jazz Lives. Mr. McQuaid remains a well-established jazz musician throughout the UK, touring frequently across Europe, participating in bands like The Vitality Five, the Forest Hill Owls, and his very own Michael Mc
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!

The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.

Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.

Already Registered? Log In

If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.

Or look at our Subscription Options.