Mike Steinel holds a BME degree from Emporia State University and a MME degree from the University of North Texas. An experienced jazz trumpeter, pianist, composer and arranger, Mr. Steinel was jazz artist in residence at Bethel College and was on the faculty of Northern Illinois University before coming to North Texas. He has served on the faculties of the Clark Terry Jazz Camp, the Jamey Aebersold Improvisation Camps, the Saskatchewan Summer Jazz Camp and the University of Missouri Summer Jazz Residency.

Mike has performed as soloist at the MENC and IAJE national conventions and at the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic. His playing experience includes work with Clark Terry, Don Ellis, Bill Evans, Jerry Bergonzi and recordings with the Chicago Jazz Quintet and the Frank Mantooth Big Band. Honors received include an Illinois Arts Council Chairman's Grant (1985) and a jazz fellowship grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (1987).