Born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Michael has had many opportunities to perform different types of music in this very diverse part of the United States. Starting trumpet at the age of 11, Michael began playing not only in concert band, but also invested time in Mariachi groups as well as a Ska band. Throughout high school, Michael maintained a spot in the NMMEA All State competition, and made 1st Trumpet in the top ensemble his senior year. Currently, Michael studies music performance at NMSU under the direction of Pancho Romero. He has had experience playing in many varieties of music such as Wind Symphony, Orchestra, Jazz, Theater, Opera, and even Ska.