Michael started his career as a Music teacher, where he became Head of Music and Music technology. Highlights of his teaching career include conducting the St. Thomas More Chamber Choir at the Royal Albert Hall and ensuring that every pupil (over 850) played an instrument at Key stage 3 (years 7-9).

As a Specialist Leader in Education, Michael advised many schools upon their music provision and raising the achievement of pupils. As an educationist Michael has led on parts of the Durham ITT training (PGCE), lectured on conducting within schools and written articles for Music Teacher magazine.

Michael is also a School Improvement adviser for the Education Development Service within Durham County Council advising all types of schools across the county upon their music provision, inspecting and leading CPD and training session staff. To have this full 360 degree view on music education enables the music hub to be at the forefront of advances and developments within the field.

As a conductor Michael is Musical Director for Durham Choral Society, previous professional posts include MD Durham University Choral Society, Associate Conductor National Youth Choirs of Great Britain, MD Felling Male Voice Choir, Guisborough Choral Society and The Prudhoe Gleemen.