Proficiency, creativity, and professionalism are the pillars around which Mike Sands has wrapped his guitar playing career. From the age of 10 when he first picked up a guitar, Mike had a dedicated connection with the instrument, working diligently to impress the audiences in his hometown of Okotoks. By the time he graduated high school he already had a record deal with his band Tainted Euphoria and had begun to perform regularly, but Mike knew he was destined for even more.
His quest for knowledge lead him to Edmonton where he attended Grant MacEwan University. There he graduated from the most competitive program with a degree majoring in performance.
To put these finely tuned skills to good use, Mike joined the heavy metal band All Else Fails. The band saw great success, releasing two albums and winning awards such as the Western Canadian Music Award for Metal Album of the Year. The band toured relentlessly developing a following all over Canada, the United States, and as far as India.
Thanks to all this experience (and more), Mike’s skills lend themselves to all genres. Country, Rock, Blues, Pop, Jazz, are all unique opportunities for his expression. This open approach paired with his hard-work has lead to a successful career as a freelance musician performing with other award winning artists such as Matt Blais, Rik Reese, and Jaydee Bixby, and opening for Blue Rodeo and Willie Nelson. He has become one of the “in high demand” players and can be found performing on world class stages such as Big Valley Jamboree, Country Thunder and the Calgary Stampede.
Whether it’s on stage, in the studio, or in a private lesson, Mike’s commitment to music is inspiring and truly helps other artists to shine.