Michael Shirtz is a performer, educator, composer, and conductor, known for his versatility with jazz, contemporary, and classical music. Credited as a “songsmith,” his vocals and arrangements feature jazz and singer-songwriter styles into his performances as both a solo artist and with his group, the Michael Shirtz Quartet. He has worked with such artists as Melissa Manchester, Evelyn Wright, and as music director for Maureen McGovern, among others. As an artist Shirtz is affiliated with the Prima Music Foundation and the Musical Theatre Project. Shirtz's shows include a tribute to legendary artists in "As We've Learned It," "In Finding Faith," and his "Blue Skies" show and album released in 2018. 

 

“Mike approaches singing and the piano like a masterful storyteller.  He is sensitive to what he is “saying.”  Whether simple, or profound he is adept at making musical statements that reach the hearts of every listener.”

     - Johnny Parker, music director & producer

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Shirtz has conducted, vocal coached, and music directed educational, theatre, masterworks, and pops music productions for choral, symphonic, and festival organizations including the State Theatre Repertory Company, Huron Playhouse, and director-in-residence for Pellissippi State-Knoxville. Shirtz has served as a producer with Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland, Jazz@8 Series, and jazz in schools initiative with the Sandusky State Theatre. Shirtz is a music director for Lakeside Chautauqua and conductor of the Symphony Chorale with the Firelands Symphony Orchestra & School of Music. He has written compositions for jazz, choir, theater, and extended works such as the cantata The Solemn Blessings, the musical Headliner, and To Rise Above: A Journey of a Tuskegee Airman.​

 

“Strong musicianship and spontaneous substantive

musical ideas flow effortlessly from Mike’s performances.”

                                      - Pete Ford, jazz pianist

 

Shirtz currently serves on faculty with The Ohio State University School of Music where he is a lecturer of voice teaching applied voice and studio classes. He has served on the faculties of Capital University, Heidelberg University, and Terra State Community College where he held the positions of lead faculty and dean. Shirtz is a member of ASCAP, American Choral Directors Association, Jazz Education Network, African American Jazz Caucus, and the National Association of Teachers of Singing. His advocacy for mental health awareness and engaging communities in creativity have led to a series of programs with music therapist Dr. Deforia Lane entitled, Finding Your Way. 

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