A native of St. John's, Newfoundland, Mike earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Memorial University and Master of Music in choral conducting and jazz studies from Western Michigan University. While performing coast to coast with Gold Company from WMU under Steve Zegree and VoicesIowa under Phil Mattson, he has shared the stage with Richie Cole, Bobby McFerrin, Mark Murphy, New York Voices, Don Shelton, Michele Weir, and many other wonderful musicians. A career music educator, Mike has taught at every level from elementary school through university and has been recognized by DownBeat magazine, the International Association for Jazz Education, and the Illinois Music Educators' Association for outstanding contributions. He is currently part of the amazing music faculty at St. Charles North High School where he teaches vocal jazz, chorus, concert band and jazz band.