Michaela grew up in Massachusetts, and began playing percussion at the age of 10. She recently graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell with an undergraduate degree in Music Studies/Education, where she studied percussion with Jeffrey Fischer and Dr. Andrew Fordyce. She also served as Principal Percussionist of the University of Massachusetts Wind Ensemble for 2 years, and was on the Electoral Board of her university’s Collegiate National Association for Music Education (cNAfME) chapter for 3 years, eventually becoming president. Michaela is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Music Education at Teachers College of Columbia University, where is a recipient of the Abby O’Neill Fellowship.