Musician Bio
Born to a rock ‘n’ roll bass player
(The Untouchables circa 1960’s), Vocalist mom
and raised for a time by a professional
country drummer step-dad, her first
performances were in the church choir with
grandma & grandpa and on the PA at home with
mom. School choirs, classical solo
competitions, musical theatre & jazz
immersion programs led Michelle to
continue her study of music at Portland
State University before relocating to
NYC to study theatre in 1989.
After a profound awakening in 1992, Michelle was suddenly struck by entire songs happening in her head. She shared these songs with friends— after many years of hiding from the music and voice she was born with and not singing at all—and was encouraged & convinced to share them some more…
In 1993 Michelle met Ketul Arnold, creator of Rasa Yoga, and began intensive study of the sound & breath practices of yoga & ayurveda. These reconnected her to her sound, mind, & body and brought tremendous healing to her relationship with her own voice. In 1995 Michelle connected with teacher and mentor Elynn Diamond ("Freeing Your Voice Means Opening Your Heart"TM) where she entered another crucible of transformation via song and emerged firmly connected to and empowered by her own Sound.
Michelle began writing and performing her original songs in New York City in 1994 where she played many venues including CBs Gallery, The Lounge, Eureka Joe’s Café (RIP) and The Triad Theatre with band mates Bob Kaufmann, Dan Pifer & Cheryl Prashker. Other collaborators include Byron Estep, Paul Greenwood, Mark Lineberry & Tim Ribner. Michelle’s wide vocal range and power, her particular combination of influences ranging from 60’s pop to jazz standards to gospel and her professional theatrical training allow her to move, delight and incite audiences.
Michelle believes the way to move an audience is to have an authentic experience. She aspires to reveal spirit through her creativity, breath and enthusiasm every moment and holds true that “our vulnerability is our strength”. She is committed to hearing and sharing the songs that come, being a voice for truth, healing & hope and she knows no limits to where her voice may be of service next… Michelle continues her transformation in Portland, OR with the classical voice training of Linda Brice.
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