Michael studied percussion at the University of Buffalo and performed with the university's Percussion Ensemble, under the direction of Jan Williams. He was a founding member of the infamous Zobo Funn Band, and has performed with many bands throughout his career. He has impeccable time and unusual versatility in Jazz, Latin, Rock and other styles. He formerly owned and operated Hillcrest Productions, a small recording studio, and until recently was on the faculty at the Community School of Music & Arts in Ithaca, Ny