Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith brings back musical memories as one of Columbus’ premier performers of music made famous by such greats as Frank Sinatra, Jack Jones, Tony Bennett and Vic Damone. Brian has been singing the American standard for as long as he can remember. It’s a part of him, just like breathing in and out. He has spent years and countless hours listening to every Big Band and American Standard recording he could find. His “Frankly Speaking…” show includes a variety of Sinatra tunes performed in Brian’s impeccable style.

One of the top vocalists in the area, Brian returned to the Columbus music scene in 2000 after 13 years in New York City. His NYC career includes appearances on the Manhattan Cable program “Cabaret Beat”, feature vocalist at the world famous Rainbow Room atop 30 Rockefeller Center and off Broadway productions of “Finian’s Rainbow”, “Annie Get Your Gun”, “South Pacific” and “Cinderella”, as well as performing in various Manhattan night clubs. Here in Central Ohio, he performs with the Brian Smith Trio, the John Vermeulen Octet, and Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra as well as duet and other trio acts. Brian appeared in numerous theatrical productions at Capital University, with Gallery Players of the Leo Yassenoff Jewish Center, The Ohio State University School of Music, Columbus Summer Stage and Players Theatre of Columbus.

As with any success, many people contributed to Brian’s career. Brian’s first public performance was with Sonia Modes when she was playing at the Neil House. Many other musicians, such as Janet O’Brien and Dave Powers gave Brian great opportunities to perform.

However, it was on a trip to the Christopher Inn with his parents to see the Bob Allen Trio that inspiration truly hit, and Brian knew what he was meant to do. These visits connected Brian with Bob Allen and Cornell Wiley, two of Columbus’ most popular performers of the time and Rick Brunetto, their drummer. It was with Rick Brunetto that Brian had the first opportunity to sing with a big band and hone his craft.

This collaboration led to Brian’s finding a great spot for the group at the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant, an opportunity for which Brian is very grateful. After leaving the Rick Brunetto Big Band, Brian began performing with area musicians, including John Vermeulen’s Octet. He also enjoys the many opportunities to perform at private social and corporate events, along with area festivals.

Brian appreciates the continuing support he has received from the many musicians with whom he has performed, the names of which would take up a website of their own. In addition, thanks to the many people who have attended his shows without whom there would be no reason to perform. Brian also thanks his manager Margaret (Margi) Gundelfinger for countless hours of hard work and sharing his enthusiasm for this great music. Finally, Brian thanks his wife, Anne, for her love and support these many years.