ABOUT

About Michael Simpsonelli:

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I am an award-winning music educator, session musician, composer, producer, and videographer with over 25 years of experience. I'm equally comfortable on drums and guitar, and also play keys, bass, percussion and I sing too. 

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As a musician, I’ve worked with some of Canada’s top artists, including Juno Award winners George Leach and Shad K (host of Hip Hop Evolution on Netflix), Grammy Award winner Terry Townson (Ray Charles and The Temptations), Juno nominees Jason Burnstick and Corin Raymond, Juno winner Raven Kanakta from Digging Roots, Ryan Guldemond of Mother Mother, and legendary beatbox poet CR Avery.

I play drums in Beau Wheeler's band, and we recorded Beau's recent album at Canadian music icon Bryan Adams' studio, The Warehouse.

I’ve also worked with Simon Kendall (Colin James, Doug and the Slugs), Steven Nikleva (Sarah McLachlan, Petunia and the Vipers), and Johnny Wah (Brasstronaut, Dan Mangan). Additionally, I’ve worked with Guenter Schulz (KMFDM) and Ken Fleming (SNFU, Econoline Crush). I’ve toured internationally, performing across a wide range of genres at festivals and concerts, continually expanding my musical journey. I also play guitar with my own band, Crooked Rider, alongside my friend Zach Graham, president of the moto lifestyle- International Motorsports motorcycle company. We regularly perform at motorbike events in the lower mainland.

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On the visual and production side, I specialize in professional video production and studio recording. As a videographer, I focus on capturing the energy and authenticity of live performances, studio sessions, and music-driven projects. My videography work centers on crafting narratives that resonate with audiences, from live shows to polished music videos. As a studio producer, I bring out the best in musicians by creating an environment that fosters creativity and excellence. Whether recording solo artists, duos, or full bands, I ensure the production quality is top-tier, from dialing in sound to final post-production work.

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I have taken several courses with the acclaimed online school Circuit Stream, focusing on Unity, C#, and XR development and design. I completed two 3D/XR music experiences of my own, combining music and interactive technology in ways that expanded my creative capabilities. My educational background also includes the Contemporary Music Diploma program at Vancouver Community College, the Recording Arts program at Columbia Academy, and Music Composition for Multimedia at Vancouver Film School.

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Outside of music, I enjoy boxing and train at Eastside Boxing Club with my friend and coach Dave Schuck. I recently participated in the Eastside Rumble fundraiser, which was a rewarding experience both physically and mentally, as well as a positive for the local community for which we raised funds.

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My creative work, both in music and visual media, is all about pushing boundaries and delivering high-quality, immersive experiences for audiences and collaborators alike. My music education programs are unparalleled, and I go beyond the extra mile to ensure all my students have a positive experience.