Bio
Pianist Michael Arenstein is a retired ear, nose and throat surgeon who practiced medicine for 30 years in Montgomery County, Maryland. A native of New York, Michael began studying piano at age 7 and started playing gigs while in high school.
As an undergraduate at Emory University, he majored in piano and gigged in the Atlanta area. After graduating from college, Michael spent a gap year as a professional pianist in Georgia and other southern states. Following that, he entered Emory Medical School. As a practicing physician, he played in various settings around the DMV area.
Now retired, he has returned to piano, his first love. He performs as a soloist, with his trio, quartet, as well as in big band settings. Michael particularly enjoys traditional jazz, the Great American Songbook and classic Broadway music.
During his career, Michael has played in jazz ensembles that opened for Buddy Rich, Count Basie, and the Maynard Ferguson Band.
Michael has had the honor of playing with jazz great Gene Bertoncini (NBC Orchestra), Chris Vadala (Chuck Mangione, U of MD jazz director), Paul Langosch (Tony Bennett), and Lee Castle and the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra.
In addition, Michael has performed at the Phillips Collection, Austrian and Finnish Embassies, Arts Club of Washington, the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Hillwood Estate, Cosmos Club, and Congressional Country Club.
He has performed at the annual Christmas Day meal for the homeless in Bethesda, Bethany House Gala at the Westwood Country Club, and the Ring House in Rockville, Maryland.
NOTE: Check out my solo version of an Ellington classic by clicking on MUSIC above. For more information regarding my services click on CONTACT above and check out upcoming performances by clicking on SHOWS above.