Michael began playing at the age of 11 for Grimethorpe Junior Band. He subsequently fulfilled a lifetime ambition to be part of the famous Grimethorpe Senior Band after gaining experience with other renowned bands such as Carlton Main Frickley and Brighouse and Rastrick.

He is greatly in demand as a peripatetic brass and piano teacher and holds a BA in Music and L.R.S.M in Band Mastership.

His banding highlights are performing at the Royal Albert Hall, Sydney Opera House and most recently in the prestigious Carnegie Hall. He also thoroughly enjoyed his debut in “acting” when he performed as Stan Laurel in a ‘Laurel and Hardy’ comedy duo act at the 2001 Spennymoor Brass in Concert. As well as creating brass band history, he won best Euphonium of the day.

Michael plays a Sterling Virtuoso Euphonium and is quite unique in banding as he uses a JK clear/plexiglass mouthpiece.

Michael says about the Sterling Virtuoso Euphonium, “ The Sterling Virtuoso Euphonium has a full, rich sound, is easy and responsive to play. It has an excellent upper register, with consistent intonation throughout the range. All the available options give the opportunity to satisfy all players needs and demands. It is the best euphonium I have ever played and the only one I have ever purchased.”