“Our commissioning process couldn’t have been more optimal. His organization and willingness to meet our vision, combined with infusing his own aesthetic stamp, resulted in a composition that was absolutely perfect.” – Michael Vaughn (College Station, TX)
“His mission was to understand our needs and to write music that would deliver exactly what we were hoping for. Michael understands how to write for the voice and he knows how to touch hearts through his writing. Working with Michael has been a great privilege and pleasure; indeed, a highlight in my career as a conductor, musician, and administrator. – Laurel Sanders (State College, PA)
“His attention to range and difficulty level without sacrificing emotion or musicality allowed my choir to connect their work to the outside world and convey their emotions to the audience. Michael was so helpful and easy to work with. He made our vision come to life in a way no one else could have! ” – Melody Villegas (Mesquite, TX)
“He took time to understand the mission of the project and worked to fulfill it . . . we couldn’t be happier.” – Rebecca Raber (Bismarck, ND)
“His down to earth approachability allowed all of us to access our own artistry and musicality immediately.” – Emily Kaster (Middletown, NJ)
“His music always keeps the singers in mind. He also makes it financial feasible to be part of a consortium of choirs to be able to commission larger works. Our choir loves it.” – Michael Monnikendam (Seattle, WA)
“Writes with consideration of range and tessituras for all voice types . . . a great experience for my high school and community singers.This work brought two of my choirs together for wonderful intergenerational singing.” – David Richardson (Summerville, SC)
Working with Michael was an incredible experience. He truly listened and composed a piece exactly like I had envisioned. I wanted my commission to empower my Treble Choir. Michael thought of everything! [He cleverly combined the everything I wanted] to make a masterpiece. I was able to take my choir to another level because of his work. – Heather Orr (Montgomery, TX)
“He was so encouraging and warm, yet commanded the room and encouraged excellent singing at all times. He challenged my singers to think artistically and perform the piece whole-heartedly.” – Joanna Scarangello (Hackettstown, NJ)
“Amazing to work with! The music was tailored to fit our needs while maintaining flair that drew us to his music to begin with!” – Leigh Grizzard (Pekin, IL)
“Elegant and accessible, the appropriate amount of challenge while retaining a feeling that it is always within reach for any ensemble.” – Aaron Hufty (San Antonio, TX)
“[There is] a keen sense of creativity in his economy of melodic and harmonic material, bringing an organic connection throughout the piece” – Stephen Mitchell (Atlanta, GA)