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 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 as director-in-residence for Pellissippi State-Knoxville. Shirtz is a music director for Lakeside Chautauqua and conductor of the Symphony Chorale with the Firelands Symphony Orchestra and 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.

Shirtz currently serves as a lecturer of voice at Ohio State, where he teaches 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. 

Shirtz holds a Bachelor of Music in jazz studies/voice from the Conservatory of Music at Capital University, and a Master of Music in choral conducting from California State University, Los Angeles.

Album: Blue Skies (2018)