Grammy-nominated Music Educator and Saxophonist Huber “Mickey” Smith Jr., quickly becoming one of jazz’s most thrilling and emotive performers and ambassadors, continues to stand out and push boundaries as a composer, performer, teacher and recording artist. Smith’s playing, though inspired by Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, and Grover Washington, Jr., displays his own fresh ideas and distinctive tone. So much so that Southwest Louisiana has named him outstanding musician and educator on multiple occasions. Born, raised and educated in Louisiana, the birthplace of jazz, Smith approaches jazz in his own way. Blending soulful and spirit filled southern rhythms from his roots with skillful horn textures; his sax seems to speak to the soul. Smith has performed for and performed with a number of world-class musicians and events, including Jay Leno, BET’s “My Black Is Beautiful”, The Red Cat Jazz Club (recognized by Downbeat Magazine) and many others. Mickey Smith Jr.’s Sax In the City band performs regularly and is gaining notoriety for its smooth jazz interpretations on modern pop hits. Smith is highly respected in the music education world. His teaching endeavors have been recognized on CBS News, ryanseacrest.com and by the Grammys. Smith has been named a 2015 Grammy Finalist for the second-ever Music Education Award. He believes that music is truly a gift and should be given back whenever possible. As a recording artist, Mickey Smith Jr. has released his Radio single, “Come Together” from his upcoming album. Smith’s music video of the same title is garnering national attention for its depiction of unity in the community. Smith uses his platform of music to help others. His work with Jazz In the Arts and Tipatina’s brings music education in the form of jazz to hundreds of students each year and his work with 501C3 Non-profit Musicmakers2U has outfitted hundreds of at-risk children with instruments of their own. “I am so grateful for the opportunity to give back and perform music with a mission. After teaching for nearly 10 years, I now have a chance on share my calling on a national stage. The music community has welcomed me with open arms, and I feel so fortunate to be an ambassador of this universal message we call music.” Huber “Mickey” Smith Jr.