Michael Riendeau

A celebrated percussionist and music educator, Michael has worked for the Negaunee Institute at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Urban Gateways, Ravinia Festival’s REACH TEACH PLAY Program, and for Merit School of Music. He is also a certified yoga instructor. Michael served as the Lead Social Emotional Learning Specialist with Mindful Practices coaching Pre-K – HS on both a local and national level, including SEL direct instruction in the classroom, professional development, and teacher trainings.

Michael currently performs and records with children’s artist, Laura Doherty, at premier venues and festivals across the country, including Chicago’s Old Town School of Folk Music, Ravinia, Lollapalooza, Nashville’s Pilgrimage Fest, Austin’s SXSW, Philly’s World Cafe Live, Boston’s Club Passim and many more!
Michael studied percussion at Lawrence University Conservatory receiving his B.A. double-majoring in Music and French. His studies took him to France at the Akanga Music School and to Dakar, Senegal where he immersed himself in the music and culture of West Africa.

Examples of Michael’s Urban Gateways programs:

Four Layer Players to Rock the House of Blues

UG Teaching Artist Gives Youth Voice through Music