Michael Garding has been playing professionally for over 20 years. Growing up in Winfield, he was encouraged to pursue a career in music by his band teacher. Michael studied Jazz Performance at Grant Mac Ewan College where he was quickly recognized for his tone quality and his perfect pitch. Upon returning to Kelowna, he trained to become a musical instrument technician, which was a natural fit for him as he was constantly working on his own horn to keep it in top condition. Eventually Michael purchased Omus Band Instrument Repair which he currently operates. Over the years Michael has performed with many different groups and is frequently called upon as for recording projects as he is a “one take” player. His jazz quartet has had a regular gig at Nineteen Okanagan Grill and Bar for the last 12 years. He is also the musical director of the 19 piece Michael Garding Big Band, a perennial favourite at the BC Interior Jazz Festival and winner of Best Instrumental Artist/Group of the year at the 2006 Okanagan Music Awards. His love of large groups is evident as he has also been a member of Soul Funktion, a twelve piece funk band, and The Salmon Armenians, a ten piece r&b group. He has also had the honour of sharing the stage with Tommy Banks, Big Miller, BC Read, Campbell Ryga, Bob Mintzer and Dee Daniels. Michael is also a recording engineer at his own business. Michael Garding Studios completing projects for such artists as Dale Seaman, Pyramid, Craig Thomson, Nikita Afonso, Janyse Jaud, Ally Henry, and Rick Halisheff.