Musically:
James Taylor, Elton John, Dire Straits, Vin Garbutt, Guy Fletcher.
Vocally:
The Waterson Family, The Wilson Family, The Young Tradition, Artisan, James Taylor, Arnold Mcculler, David Lasley.
Michael’s interest in music began at a very young age. After 8 years of private tuition, he attained Grade 8 ‘Rhythm Guitar’ with Distinction (Royal College of Music) at the age of 15. He then turned his attention to the piano and spent a number of years learning and perfecting different techniques. He continues to learn and develop new ‘modus operandi’ on the guitar, piano and keyboards.
At present, Michael sings with northeast folk outfit ‘The Young’uns’, who perform on a regular basis, at venues throughout the UK. They are influenced by a number of big names in folk, including The Waterson Family, Artisan, The Young Tradition and The Wilson Family. A new album called ‘Accapella’ is due for release in the coming months. To find out more, go to www.theyounguns.co.uk .
Individually, Michael often records new arrangements of his favourite songs, including James Taylor’s ‘Country Road’, Phil Collins ‘Another day in Paradise’ and a number of Elton John tracks. Also, he composes and produces a number of instrumental compositions, which explore a range of different genres, from Reggae to Rock; Blues to Country. He enjoys exploring and experimenting with different genres, composing and arranging material in a unique style.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this folk-carol on myspace... Poem 230 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (see my blog for details): CHRISTMAS SUNG SIMPLY
As gospellers have said, Beneath signalling skies, On land dusty to tread, A trough in a stable Was the strawy first-bed Of a divine baby - The forgiving Godhead.
A season for new hope - There then and here now; The yuletide of goodwill - There then and here now.
In respect of this chance, Beneath bright or dark skies, Faith's the star that we glance Attending Christ's churches And trying to enhance, With singing and ritual, Our God-loving stance.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 162 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): TEES TO TYNE: FIRST IMPRESSIONS - SUMMER 2001
Where traditions are not so rare; Sea, country and works scent the air; A multitude of monuments, Planted tubs and patterned pavements.
The longish pedestrian malls; The remnants of defensive walls; Historic buildings are a gauge Of the respect for heritage.
Wheat, rape and pines in the fields; Estuaries guarded by shields; Long sandy beaches and wide scenes; Romantic-ruin go-betweens.
Rivers in parts licked by trees, Or fringed by boat clubs, wharfs, gantries, And crossed by practical delights - Varied spans, forming pleasing sights.
Fine churches headed at Durham; Football kits ad infinitum; Kept castles - one for study; Masonry behind masonry.
And, with moulding-works out that way, It’s somewhere for a longer stay..?
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 2 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): WALKABOUT WITH MY PEN
Once drove an old sedan, up north, From a place in Sydney to Cairns; Then to Kuranda I went forth, By train, to look without set plans.
I browsed through the trendy market, With fresh fruits of tropical kind; Walked to the creek through lush thicket - Nature’s hand giving peace of mind.
I dined in a scenic cafe; Then, outside, as I wrote for yen, Some passing Kooris called-out: “Hey, You go walkabout with your pen.”
Request or question, I don’t know - Assured voices, elderly men. That’s now several years ago, And I’ve seen the world - with my pen.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace -
2 of 230, walkaboutsverse.741.com: WALKABOUT WITH MY PEN
Once drove an old sedan, up north, From a place in Sydney to Cairns; Then to Kuranda I went forth, By train, to look without set plans.
I browsed through the trendy market, With fresh fruits of tropical kind; Walked to the creek through lush thicket - Nature’s hand giving peace of mind.
I dined in a scenic cafe; Then, outside, as I wrote for yen, Some passing Kooris called-out: “Hey, You go walkabout with your pen.”
Request or question, I don’t know - Assured voices, elderly men. That’s now several years ago, And I’ve seen the world - with my pen.
