Bio
Fiddler extraordinaire, charismatic performer and educator Art Mize has more than 30 years of experience entertaining Kentucky audiences. His wide repertoire stretches across bluegrass, old-time, Irish/Scottish, and swing jazz, and recognition for his original compositions is growing. In addition to his stellar violin skills, Art is fluent on guitar and mandolin, and has a fine high tenor singing voice whether carrying the lead or crafting harmonies. Though a vibrant soloist, Art has brought his talents to many ensembles, including The Kentucky Trio, Pale Stout and Amber, The Bluegrass Collective, Homer Ledford, and Stoney Creek. Currently he may be heard solo or as The Jarflies with banjoist Mason Colby, with jazz singer Diane Timmons, with guitarist Bruce Lewis or as The Rambler Rounders with Diane Timmons and Carla Gover.
Engaging and careful in his guidance of young students, Art is an ideal educator. He offers workshops and residencies in old-time, Celtic or improvisational fiddling, and in the historical development of fiddling styles. As a professional luthier he also presents demonstrations related to violin-making and repair. Featured since 2007 in the Kentucky Arts Council's Made to Be Played traveling exhibit of Kentucky luthiers, he was the first recipient of the Homer Ledford Award for combining contributions to Kentucky traditional music with personal dedication to the instruments themselves.
As a veteran performer, Art is connected with many of the finest musicians of the region and can be depended upon to assemble a prime quality ensemble for any occasion. His performance experience has encompassed college stages, festivals, arts series, corporate and private parties, tourism-related events, classrooms and other educational venues. Your audience will enjoy his wide repertoire, consummate skill and embedded roots aesthetic.
Minimal Technical Requirements
Minimum stage size: 8 feet x 5 feet
Lighting: General wash
Sound: One instrument mic, one vocal mic, two boom stands, one stage monitor