"Michael is an exceptional musician in traditional Irish music with a deep commitment to learning and teaching. I am a latecomer to Irish music performance and have learned a great deal from him. I highly recommend his patient and thorough teaching method to anyone interested in studying this wonderful music." - William Bradbury, D.M.A., Professor of Music and Music Technology, California State University, San Marcos

"Michael knew exactly how to analyze my technique on the tin whistle and showed me how to improve upon my foundation, with kindness and humor. He made small, "understandable" tweaks to my whistle-playing foundation to make it more solid, and a point from which I will more rapidly improve. His keen observation of my ability and current level of play was remarkable as he custom-tailored my lesson for my specific needs and goals. Believe me, many teachers only concentrate on what they want you to know, never listening to the student's heart's desire. To wrap up my lesson, Michael gave me the tools (homework and drills) to help launch me on my own journey toward becoming a much better whistle player. Not to mention it is a real treat to be able to listen to his phenomenal playing in person! Thank you Michael." - Jill Geary, San Diego, CA

"I've worked with Michael in bands, teaching classes, and hosting Irish sessiuns. Michael is an extremely gifted musician and always a pleasure to work with. He is genuinely interested in helping other musicians learn to play Irish music, and his occasional coaching has helped me improve my own playing." -Elaine Thompson, San Diego, CA

"Firstly, I was impressed by your playing skill and interpretation and then by your generosity - not only in allowing us to use your music but also by your willingness to re-interpret some of your pieces once you knew what we were trying to achieve. What we have got, I believe, is an added atmosphere, a dimension to the tale of Gleda that might have been my intention but which I could not achieve simply by prose alone." - Frank Wilson, Great Britain (2006 soundtrack for "Gleda and the Sparkling Cloth" audiobook)

"Michael is a musician of high quality with an extensive knowledge of music in general but Traditional Irish music in particular. He also is a very generous and helpful teacher and promoter of the music. Michael has the rare ability to communicate this knowledge on to others and share his love for this life long passion. I can highly recommend Michael as a thorough teacher from begining to higher levels of traditional music on several different instruments." - George Rubsamen, San Diego, CA

"I studied Irish music in a group setting with Michael for nearly 18 months, and I had a great learning experience in a very supportive environment. Michael is a superb musician who is gifted with the ability to teach music clearly, supportively, and patiently. With Michael's guidance, I learned musical skills that I had never believed I could master. Michael reflects the joy of music, both listening and playing, and I consider him a wonderful ambassador for the musical styles and instruments he teaches. His approach is professional, personable, and kind. I recommend him highly to any adult or child who is considering taking music lessons." - Bette Jo Garrett, San Diego, CA