Music

Michael began performing in the 70s at folk clubs and festivals. In 1979, he joined the bluegrass group New County Line, singing lead and playing guitar. They released a record the following year. 

In 1983, Michael returned to University to study literature but still found time to sing and play with the Country Caravan, a popular country dance band. A couple of years later, he left to form his own band, Mighty Mike and the Menus, playing rockabilly, rock 'n roll, and blues. The band featured some musicians who went on to make names for themselves like Margaret Stowe, Larry Smith, Tim Thorne, and Brent Dolson. Michael also found time to play bass with singer-songwriter Mike Gorman. 

In 1988, Michael left to study for a Ph.D. in Scotland. Following his studies, he combined his academic career with occasionally playing music for children. But it was not until 2004 when he met musician Dave Gray and joined the Kings of Cheeze as rhythm guitarist and singer. In 2011, he left the band to focus on his storytelling and storycoaching career.

In 2017, Michael moved to Canada where he took up playing the ukulele. He joined a local group which has since become the Burlington Ukulele Society, and performs regularly with them as well as accompanying himself on the uke during his storytelling performances.