Murray Middleman grew up in a musical family, exposed to the dynamic rhythms of swing and big band through his father's professional dance band in Philadelphia. At the tender age of 10, he was sitting in and playing with the band, and he was hooked! Murray has studied classical clarinet and saxophone since childhood. He learned jazz theory and improvisation with Jimmy Amadee, Woody Herman's composer and Vince Trombetta, saxophonist with The Mike Douglas Show. He also studied classical clarinet with Donald Montanaro, clarinetist with the Philadelphia Orchestra. By 14, Murray had organized his own jazz group, performing his original jazz compositions on PBS television.
After graduating from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Murray freelanced on the east coast. He played with some of the greats of the Philadelphia music scene including Bobby Durham (Oscar Peterson Trio) and famed organist Dr. Shirley Scott. At the invitation of trombonist Al Grey (trombonist with Count Basie's Band), he had the rare pleasure of performing at New York City's Storyville with the legendary Buddy Rich, who tagged Murray "a first rate man." Murray relocated to Los Angeles in the early '80s, where he established himself as one of the Southland's busiest saxophonists and woodwind artists, performing with many of LA's hottest jazz orchestras, in clubs and recording sessions. He continued to freelance, performing with superstars such as Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand and Sammy Davis Jr.
Since its inception, Park Avenue West has garnered a reputation for providing outstanding music that perfectly complements every event, large or small.
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Quick Facts
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In 1985, Murray formed his own full-service music company — Park Avenue West Entertainment. Park Avenue West provides a wide spectrum of outstanding entertainment for society and charity galas, corporate events, concerts, private parties and weddings throughout the United States. As a consummate woodwind artist and bandleader, Murray Middleman has gathered a core group of the most talented and versatile musicians and performers to be part of Park Avenue West. Recently, Murray began working with renowned musicians and entertainers including Milcho Leviev, Desi Arnaz Jr., and Jennifer Leitham, performing classic and contemporary selections from the beloved American Songbook (George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, Hoagy Carmichael, among many others) and other influential works.