Described as having a “…highly individual sound world…” that is “… both beautiful and piercingly astringent at once,” (Richard Sisson) Michael Mills composes music that addresses topics of the human condition through an extremely personal lens. Utilizing a unique compositional voice that mixes contemporary and traditional practices as well as Appalachian folk influences, Michael explores and embraces the paradox of universality amongst otherwise highly individualistic lives. His work is defined by visceral gestures, expansive timbres, and the juxtaposition of “natural” and “unnatural” sounds.

Michael’s work has garnered performances throughout America, on public radio, and across Europe working with groups such as the Tacet(i), Quartetto Indaco, Dal Niente, and Popebama. Beyond composing, Michael is active as an educator, engraver, pianist, and administrator. Michael is a cofounder of TellTale Opera Theatre, a non-profit organization that focuses on the production and promotion of contemporary dramatic musical works with an expansive and inclusive definition of what opera can be. 

Michael is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh. He has an M.M. in Composition from The Peabody Institute and a B.A. in Music Composition and Technology with a minor in Psychology from Virginia Tech.