Michael was born in Edinburgh and brought up in Aberdour(Fife) where he started playing the trombone aged 13, at first taught by Carlo Madden and subsequently by Dennis Boyd. He then successfully auditioned for the Junior Academy at the RSAMD in 1999 where he was tutored by Nigel Cox. After two years at the junior academy Michael was accepted on to the BA(musical studies) course at the RSAMD where he studied principally with Kevin Thompson (former principal trombone Scottish Opera), whilst also being taught jazz trombone by Chris Grieves and sackbut by John Kenny. 

After graduating Michael spent a year as the President of the RSAMD Student Union whilst continuing his studies part-time at the RSAMD with Simon Johnson (principal trombone BBC SSO). Michael then went on to successfully complete both a Postgraduate Diploma and Masters of Music at the RSAMD where he was taught tenor trombone by Simon Johnson, bass trombone by Chris Stearn (principal bass trombone Scottish Opera),alto trombone by Lance Green (trombone RSNO) and contempory repertoire by John Kenny. Michael's postgraduate studies were funded by the Leverhulme Trust, Scottish International Education Trust, the Yamaha Brass Scholarship and a PSAAS Award.

Michael is currently a member of the 'Scottish National Jazz Orchestra', 'FNUK', 'The Last Minute Men' and leads his own trio. As a freelance trombonist Michael has worked with many professional organisations including 'The Scottish Opera Orchestra', ' RSNO Kings of Swing Big Band' and several touring shows. He has also been involved with several recording for television and comercial release and is now available for orchestral, jazz, chamber and session work on tenor and bass trombone.