Multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Michael Hunter began his musical journey at the age of 4, improvising on his family’s Baldwin upright piano when he thought no one was looking. When his proper musical education began it became quickly apparent he had a natural talent, and as that talent grew it seemed clear that music was what Michael was born to do.

Initially he flourished in the classical world on both violin and piano, winning numerous competitions and performing with local symphonies. But those early days of improvisation had implanted in Hunter a deep desire to create and do things his own way. Though he enjoyed the sense of pride he took from excelling at something, the rigidity of the classical world often clashed with his natural musical inclinations, and ultimately Hunter chose to attend a regular university rather than pursue a career in classical music through a conservatory.

Hunter attended Cornell University with the intention of getting on the pre-med track and becoming a doctor. But soon after he picked up his first guitar and started writing songs he came to his senses, eventually transferring to the music major as he began exploring the musical world outside of the classical idiom. In addition to guitar he taught himself drums and bass, and began playing in bands of all types and genres.