“Michael is the king of bassoon/saxophone quartet arrangements. Based on my previous collaboration with Michael, I was hoping that he could deliver a similar result, and he did indeed. His ability to allow the bassoon and saxophones to play off one another while coming together at times provides such depth and texture. Although this is the last song of the project that needs bassoon/sax, I will be looking for ways for him to add more brilliant textures to other songs! Thank you, Michael!”
-Brian (via Airgigs.com, 2022)
“What a player! Such a great partner. My one-stop-shop for woodwinds! Highly recommended!!”
– samferrara (via Fiverr.com, 2021)
“Wow – what a wonderful job you’ve done! I didn’t know if I was going to get round to listening to all of them tonight but I just had to keep going and have now listened to the whole thing and honestly it was a pleasure. […] I do hope you’ve enjoyed the project and I (we) are so grateful for you having not only done it, but doing it so well and so quickly!”
– Jack Mitchell Smith (composer of ‘Morella – Original Concept Album’, 2020)
“Michael is a great and reliable player of a fantastic array of wind instruments, and overall a very well-rounded musician, an absolute asset to any ensemble.”
– Erika Gundesen (musical director of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’, 2017, ‘Oliver!’, 2017, ‘Sweeney Todd’, 2018, ‘Whistle Down the Wind’, 2018)
“Michael did a first-class job playing for our show. He was punctual and professional, sight-reading his part not only accurately but also with commitment and wonderful musicality. It was a pleasure working with him, and I have no hesitation in recommending him unreservedly.”
– Matthew Mills (musical director at Barnes Ballet School, London)
“Michael was asked at short notice to cover a 2 week run of Guys and Dolls at York Theatre Royal. Initially he was going to play 2nd alto but his ability across all the reeds gave me the flexibility to send him the tenor/clarinet pad. Michael’s playing was top drawer and he was 100% reliable, punctual and great to have around for the run. I’ll happily book him again and recommend him to others. Thanks Michael!”
– John Atkin (musical director of ‘Guys and Dolls’, 2018)
“Having experienced Michael’s professional playing in Kiss Me, Kate, he was my first choice band musician when booking for Carousel. He is not only reliable and extremely capable, he is also happy to play all sorts of extra lines on any of three instruments with absolutely no fuss!!! Michael is also a good team player, quietly welcoming others in the pit and helping everyone to enjoy their work. He’ll always be top of my list!”
– Laura Brown (musical director of ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ and ‘Carousel’, 2017)
“Michael’s work for the Welsh Musical Theatre Orchestra is nothing short of outstanding. A consummate professional, arrangements are always completed in good time and show an exceptional level of musical scale.”
– Andrew Hopkins (conductor of the Welsh Musical Theatre Orchestra)
“Michael played in the London Musical Theatre Orchestra’s debut in June 2016 among the West End’s top reed doublers and held his own. His character shines through in all his music making, and he can switch quickly between multiple styles. A name to watch for the future!”
– Freddie Tapner (conductor of the London Musical Theatre Orchestra)
“[Michael played] sax on three numbers at our show in Bridlington. He was easy to deal with, had studied the parts ready for the gig, turned up on time and performed to a professional standard.”
– Lewis Hall (bass guitarist for Think Floyd)
“This was a bit of a gamble for New Year’s Eve entertainment, but WOW this talented young man went down a storm. Not only did he perform to a high standard, but kept the attention of the audience and the response was a delight to be part of. If you would like a night with a twist Michael is your man!”
– Tina Ramsden (‘The Hole in the Wall’, Scarborough)
“Thanks so much for your many instruments! You have made such a difference to the sound of our show!”
– Pippa O’Brien (director of ‘Company’, 2015)
“Working with Michael was effortless. He’s versatile, committed and punctual, not to mention an exceptionally talented musician!
– Jack Moreton (musical director of ‘Anything Goes’, 2015)
“His technical ability on the clarinet is remarkable and he is such a reliable and appreciated player in the society. On top of that he is such a nice guy! A very good combination. He leads the clarinets extremely well and I know they all appreciate his enthusiasm.”
– Jessica Lawrence (president of Durham University Orchestral Society, 2013-2014)
“You have never settled to play the minimum and have used your musicality to help the score sound richer – something I am very grateful for. Your commitment has been brilliant and I cannot thank you enough for your contribution.”
– Sam Jewison (musical director of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, 2010)
