Biography

Growing up in Cary, North Carolina, Michael was strongly influenced by various music genres, ranging from artists like Jack White to the compositions of Chopin and Schumann. Bands such as Cake, Chicago, and Herb Alpert's Tijuana Brass inspired him to start playing the trumpet in the sixth grade.

Thanks to the guidance of Paul Randall, Principal Trumpet in the NC Symphony, Michael quickly became passionate about the instrument and received several awards throughout high school. These include first place at MTNA's All Brass Solo Competition at state and division levels, leading to a second-place finish nationally. Also earning first chair in the North Carolina All-State Band and second place in the International Trumpet Guild Solo Competition.

After high school, Michael pursued his education at Arizona State University, where he studied under Joe Burgstaller of the Canadian Brass. At ASU, Michael had the opportunity to arrange a solo recital in memory of his late father, Joseph Peery, which was the unofficial start of the Sound the Trump project. Initially studying just music performance, Michael graduated with a degree in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in music performance and business.

Starting in August 2024, Michael will begin his graduate studies at East Carolina University under Gabriel DiMartino's mentorship as part of the Faculty Brass Quintet. Looking ahead, Michael plans to continue developing Sound the Trump,  while furthering his career in performance and pedagogy.