For the last 40 years, Michael’s improvisatory skills on the bassoon have opened the door to a variety of musical environments not associated with the instrument. He has recorded with Ira Sullivan, Red Rodney, Wynton Marsalis, John Hicks, Bobby Watson, George Adams, Dave Douglas, Chris Potter, Joe Lovano and Elvis Costello. He is a founding member of The Charles Mingus Orchestra and his fifth CD as a leader called Uncharted Waters released in 2018 has garnered glowing reviews. Michael's participation conducting masterclasses and performing concerts at over 18 IDRS conferences & Double Reed events have inspired bassoonists and oboists to push beyond the traditional roles of their instruments.