Graduate of the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music and former member of professional orchestras both in Europe and the U.S.  Currently, Michael is the Principal Bass of the Orlando Philharmonic, Principal Bass of Orlando Chamber Soloists, and adjunct professor at Florida Southern College, Rollins College, University of Central Florida and Stetson University.

Born in Rapid City, SD, Michael is one of the most sought after orchestral bass players and teachers throughout the Southeastern U.S.  As a performer, he currently holds the position of Principal Bass of the Orlando Philharmonic as well as performing with the Naples Philharmonic and the Charleston Symphony, SC.  As a teacher, Michael is on staff at the Florida Southern College, Rollins College, Stetson University and the University of Central Florida.  He is sponsored by Solano Basses and endorsed by D'Addario Strings.  

Michael began his musical studies under the direction of Leona Merek, Elizabeth Benusis, and Bruce Knowles. For college, Michael chose to study with members of the Minnesota Orchestra at the University of Minnesota, James Clute. In 1988, he transferred to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia on full scholarship. Two days before graduation in 1992, Michael won his first international audition to join the Orquesta Sinfonica de Castilla y Leon in Valladolid, Spain. In 1994, Michael won his second international audition for a position as Acting and Co-Principal Bass of the Orquesta Sinfonica de Galicia.

As a college student and a professional musician Michael has performed in New York’s Carnegie Hall, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., as well as France, Germany, Austria, Spain, and Italy. He has also recorded with soloists such as Placido Domingo, Felix Ayo, and Maria Bayo.  In 1996 he won a position as Principal Bass of the Orlando Philharmonic. In 1999 he won a position as Assistant Principal Bass of the Eastern Music Festival in Greensboro, NC, which he held until 2002.