OompahME: Rooted in Tradition, Defined by Versatility

OompahME began under the high tents of Oktoberfest—and then promptly refused to stay in its lane. While the "Oomp" of traditional polka is in our DNA, we have evolved into a premier musical collective and contracting service representing some of Portland’s finest freelance talent. Our repertoire now spans the full spectrum of live performance: from the brassy soul of New Orleans jazz and holiday classics to refined chamber music and high-energy pop.

At our core is a signature quintet featuring a unique "mobile" instrumentation: Jimi Michel (trumpet), Cleaves (clarinet), Mar Fink (trombone), Chris Beaven (banjo), and Mike Dank (drums). This agile combination of horns and rhythm allows us to adapt seamlessly to any environment—loud or soft, formal or casual—without losing our distinctive, joyful character.

Beyond our core lineup, OompahME serves as a professional musical contractor for specialized events. Whether you require the precision of a classical chamber group for a wedding ceremony or a custom-curated ensemble for a cocktail hour, we handle the logistics and the talent. From street corners and retirement communities to grand weddings and corporate galas, OompahME pairs tight musicianship with a professional touch that ensures every event hits the right note.

Core Members

Jimi Michel (trumpet, leader) is at home in a wide range of styles, including orchestral, jazz, theatre, church, and traditional brass band music. He has appeared as Principal Trumpet of the New York String Orchestra, played in Boston's North End Italian Band for over 20 years, and performed as a substitute with the Syracuse Symphony and Sacramento Philharmonic. In Portland, he regularly performs with the Ideal Maine Social Aid and Sanctuary Band, has subbed with the Casco Bay Wind Symphony, and is on the faculty of the Portland Conservatory of Music, and also maintains a private trumpet studio at his home in Deering Center. He is a graduate of the New England Conservatory.

Cleaves (clarinet) also performs with the Ideal Maine Social Aid and Sanctuary Band.

Mar Fink (trombone) also performs with the Ideal Maine Social Aid and Sanctuary Band and the Casco Bay Wind Symphony.

Chris Beaven (banjo, pocket trumpet, co-leader) graduated from Berklee College of Music College in Boston, Massachusetts. In Washington DC, he worked as a composer, performer, and teacher. After moving to Maine, he taught music at Waynflete School for many years and retired right before COVID. Since retirement, he has enjoyed performing with a number of groups as a banjo, guitar and bass player; trumpet player; and steel drum player. He is also the music director of the ISLANDBEATS steel band.

Mike Dank (drums) is an enthusiastic lifelong student of music who continues to seek out new insights to expand his palate in order to enhance his performances. Using a collaborative approach he is equally comfortable in the recording studio and/or on stage in multiple genres and styles.

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OompahME: Rooted in Tradition, Defined by Versatility

Core Members

Made with ❤️ in Portland, Maine