TMA149 Members

Michaël Filion, originally hailing from Montréal, Québec, is a multi-talented individual who wears the hats of a drummer, producer, and educator. His journey in the world of music began at a young age when he delved into the realm of jazz drumming. By the tender age of 14, he had already established himself as the principal percussionist for his school’s Symphony Orchestra.

Within just two short years, Michaël’s exceptional talent earned him a coveted spot as the drummer in a highly competitive jazz band. This group achieved notable success in various competitions across the United States. Throughout high school and Cégep, Michaël remained actively involved in his school’s musical ensembles while also pursuing private musical endeavors.

In 2015, he embarked on a new chapter in his musical education at Cégep de Saint-Laurent, focusing on Music Theory and Performance. His dedication to honing his craft led him to York University in September 2018, where he began taking private drum lessons under the guidance of Anthony Michelli. This period of mentorship greatly enriched his technical skills and expanded his practical repertoire, preparing him for participation in university-related groups like the Jazz Workshop and the Rhythm & Blues Ensemble.

In the fall of 2019, Michaël’s exceptional drumming abilities caught the attention of Karen Burke, an instructor for the York University Gospel Choir. He was invited to join a five-piece rhythm section accompanying the choir, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Beyond the confines of university, Michaël continued to broaden his musical horizons. He actively participated in the Polish orchestra known as the Celebrity Symphony Orchestra, contributed to corporate events, and facilitated drum circles alongside the renowned motivational percussionist and author, Jeff Salem.

In 2022, Michaël achieved another milestone by recording an original composition titled “Morning Coffee,” which received airtime on the Jazzology program on JazzFm91.1.

During the 2021/2022 academic year, while completing his undergraduate studies at York University, Michaël was deeply involved in various ensembles that explored diverse music genres such as Jazz, RnB, and Gospel. This eclectic musical journey enabled him to evolve into a highly versatile musician.

Currently, Michaël is advancing his musical education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance at the University of Toronto, under the tutelage of Ernesto Cervini. Despite his rigorous studies, he remains active in the music scene, collaborating and recording with a range of artists in Toronto, including Nicolina Bozzo, a top 5 finalist on American Idol. His repertoire spans across genres, encompassing Jazz, Pop, and Rock, showcasing his commitment to continuous musical growth and exploration.