Michael’s musical career is marked by a profound commitment to music education and performance. Graduating in 1984 with the Associate Diploma of Music Teaching from the NSW State Conservatorium of Music and, in 2012, earning his Bachelor of Music from Newcastle Conservatorium, he has flourished as teacher, performer, conductor and administrator.
From 1976-1998, Michael’s involvement with the Nepean Valley Symphonia evolved from violinist to conductor. Throughout 1993, he served as Administrator for The Orchestras of Australia Network, simultaneously pursuing a three-year study in conducting with Myer Fredman and working with youth and community orchestras in Penrith and Newcastle.
He dedicated 6 years as a member of the Australian Strings Association committee from 1993, alongside performing with the Sydney Concert Orchestra (a professional freelance group).
St.Paul’s Grammar School in Penrith welcomed him in 1994 as Director of Strings for 7 years where he also directed the peripatetic program.
Michael’s association with the Penrith Symphony Orchestra began in 1997, becoming Associate Conductor from 1998 to 2001. He then served as Musical Director of the Macquarie University Symphony Orchestra for two years. Michael’s influence extended to musical theatre from 1990 to 2007 in both Penrith and Newcastle.
In 2008, he became Head of Strings at the Tamworth Conservatorium for three years before dedicating the past decade to teaching violin, viola and cello at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium in Lismore as well as directing the Strings Ensemble and teaching at Byron Bay and Wyrallah Road Public Schools for their music in Schools program.
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