GARDINER — Max Ater will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center, 280 Water St.

Born and raised on the coast of Maine, Ater began playing piano at the age of 6. No stranger to the stage, he filled his youth with community theater, vocal training and hours a day at the piano. At an early age, Max was inspired by artists such as Jamie Cullum, Norah Jones, John Mayer and Elton John. In high school he began composing original music, which led to an array of accolades. 

Recently signing on with Michigan-based label Prudential Records, 24-year-old  pop phenom is on the rise. His latest release, “Easy,” is available for streaming on Spotify and can be downloaded on iTunes.

Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, $5 for youth, and are available at Johnson Hall’s box office Tuesday through Friday, from noon to 3 p.m.; at 207-582-7144; or at www.johnsonhall.org.

Max Ater