City of Middletown
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR

2022-01-05
For Immediate Release
Contact: Mayor Benjamin D. Florsheim, 860-638-4801

Michael Arafeh, Music Ambassador 2022

The Middletown Commission on the Arts (MCA) has announced the annual awardee of the title Music Ambassador, proclaiming Tuesday, January 11, 2022 as Michael Arafeh Day in the city of Middletown. This title of Music Ambassador highlights the great talent that exists within our city. In addition to being recognized for their valuable artistic and creative contributions, the Music Ambassador’s music will be the featured “music on hold” for all city phones. While the city strives to answer calls promptly and avoid putting someone on hold, when those occasion do occur the music you will hear is that of our local musician multi-instrumentalist and record producer Michael Arafeh. Mayor Florsheim stated “The MCA and I are looking forward to hearing Michael’s music showcased this year. My office often receives compliments and inquiries about the hold music that is played on our phones, and I anticipate many wonderful compliments when callers enjoy his music. “The City endeavors to elect similar ambassadors annually, highlighting the great talent that exists within our city limits.

Michael Arafeh is a Middletown native and “grew up in a home where there was always music…and built his first studio in his parent’s attic in 1982” stated Arafeh. Michael, now 58, is sought after in his field, and has been operating his highly regarded recording studio for a total of 33 years. 2021, marks the 31st year The Coffeehouse Recording Studio has been located on Main Street. 

A small ceremony in his honor will be held on January 11, 2022 with the day being proclaimed as Michael Arafeh day in the city of Middletown. 

Municipal Building; 245 deKoven Drive, Middletown, Connecticut 06457
Phone: 860-638-4801   Fax: 860-638-1901   E-mail: Mayor@MiddletownCT.gov