|
Michael is an accomplished performer, arranger and multi-instrumentalist whose credits include composing for film, television and commercials. After a childhood education in classical piano, he went on to study jazz improvisation with pianist Sal Mosca for 11 years. Over the years he was a session keyboard player and member of many rock and jazz bands in the NY / NJ area.
“My favorite records as a little kid were always very rhythmic and swinging. I didn't care much for most children's records. But I loved Harry Belafonte, Gypsy music, Spanish bands, African drum music, Little Richard... music that had passion, high energy and a backbeat.
“When I was nine years old I heard the Beatles ‘I Wanna Hold your Hand’ for the first time. It was a very powerful moment that I recall vividly. I didn't have the words for it, but I experienced how music can transform and shape the soul. Much later in life I became acquainted with Chassidic nigunim and began to realize there were much deeper levels of transformative power in music, levels that I feel I'm only beginning to touch upon.”
In addition to touring with and producing The Baal Shem Tones he can be found doing session work, producing other artists, composing, writing songs, teaching music or teaching Hebrew school. Sometimes he accompanies the improvisational comedy troupes Laughing Matters and Blacktop Circus.
|