Mike began studying

music at the age of 4

and has played, taught,

and performed it ever

since.  He started out

on the piano and quickly

began to improvise and

write music based off

what he was learning

in his classical lessons. Continuing to take lessons

throughout his young life, he began playing guitar

and bass at the age of 13. Soon after Mike began

playing in bands of varying different styles including

rock, jazz, pop, country, and alternative; playing bass, guitar, piano, and

                                singing in each. Mike holds a bachelors degree in Music

                                Education from Luther College and has taught both

                                classroom and private music; in public and private

                                schools, and studio settings for 6 years. In addition to

                                conventional music instruction Mike excels in classical

                                and jazz theory, as well as improvisational instruction.