As a professional saxophonist, Jack has been influenced by such great jazz players as Coleman Hawkins, Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane. He is heavily inspired by the music and culture of New Orleans. Ranging from legendary artists Louis Armstrong, Sydney Bechet and Jelly Roll Morton to more recent musicians Dr John, Allen Toussaint, Trombone Shorty, Jon Batiste and Wynton Marsalis.
Whilst studying for his MA Jazz at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, Jack trained under reputable British musicians including Huw Warren, Geoff Simkins, Iain Ballamy and Alex Merritt. He has used the knowledge and skills from this experience to develop his own musical identity and at the same time passing this on to his students.
Currently Jack lives and works in Cardiff, both playing and teaching in the city and surrounding areas. He performs a variety of original and standard music with both his Jazz combo group and his band, ‘Jack Mac’s Funk Pack’. By appearing in local music venues, New Orleans street bands and major sport stadiums, he is forever finding new ways to bring live music to life in the capital of Wales.
Over the years, Jack has appeared at several music festivals, including the Montreux Jazz Festival, Derry Jazz Festival, Idstein Jazz Festival, and Brecon Jazz Festival. He has also performed at many other music events and venues throughout the country, including the St David’s Cathedral Music Festival and the Royal Academy of Arts 250th Summer Exhibition.