Bio

Michael’s musical journey began with taking piano lessons when he was nine years old. However, as any reluctant youth would be so accustomed to do, he didn’t take his musical aspirations very seriously. Days after the September 11 attacks, Michael was watching the “Concert for New York” and was so inspired by the gifted musicians that he committed to learn how to play guitar. Thus began his dedication to music and Michael’s decision to ensure that it would always be a main focus of his life.
Throughout high school, Michael practiced the guitar and piano for five to seven hours a day, proving to himself and his parents that even though he did not come from a musical family, nothing was going to stop him from making his dream become a reality. To hone his skills on a deeper level, Michael studied classical guitar and music theory at Judson University. This decision proved worthwhile. Michael realized that teaching others how to play guitar and piano was a great way to share his passion, earn a living, and continue to play music full time.
After fifteen years of professional playing, Michael has logged over 700 live performances in a variety of venues; ranging from weddings, funerals, and music in the local church, to suburban bars and the largest rock clubs in Chicago. Michael’s music has received a host of national press, including mentions in AP magazine, band highlights on FUSE TV, a song featured in the ROCK BAND video game, notable radio play in the U.S. and Europe, and television placements for Netflix, TLC, National Geographic, and more. Michael also is also engaged in a number of personal musical projects, and enjoys producing, recording, and mixing his music as well as working with local songwriters. He serves as Director of Music at Calvary Baptist Church in Elgin, IL, and regularly performs with his wife Mandy in a cover band, Friday Jackson, which can he seen touring various local venues.