GARY MICHAEL SKYE – Gary Michael Skye, M.Mus., a solo and collaborative pianist, private piano teacher, university instructor, vocal coach, and composer-singer-songwriter, began playing the piano at age four. After graduating from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Preparatory Division, he studied piano for two years at The Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. Desiring a more well-rounded education, he then transferred to Stanford University, completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. In 2007, Gary received his Master’s degree in Piano Performance from Portland State University, studying with Lisa Marsh.

Gary has performed in many parts of the U.S. and has collaborated with nationally and internationally touring artists including NY City Opera mezzo soprano Jennifer Rivera, spiritual rock duo 4 Stories High, and contemporary fingerstyle guitar virtuoso Michael Mandrell. As a collaborative pianist in the Portland area, he has performed with the Northwest Children's Theater and cast members of The Lion King's national touring company, and he is the regular accompanist for the Oregon Chamber Singers and the Portland Boychoir.

Gary has held positions as a Staff Accompanist and Vocal Coach for the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Preparatory Voice Division, Sonoma State University’s Department of Music, and the Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan. He has taught piano classes and is a guest lecturer at Portland State University and teaches a "Wellness for Musicians" class on the adjunct faculty of Marylhurst University.

For more than 15 years, Gary has enjoyed teaching private lessons, incorporating diverse musical styles in his instruction (classical, jazz, and popular), and working with students of all ages and levels. He is a specialist in the areas of improvisation/composition, musician's wellness/injury prevention, and Body-Mapping.

Actively involved in music ministry, Gary has served both as a music director and a guest performer for numerous congregations on the West Coast. He feels extremely thankful to be able to spread a sense of deep inner peace, love, and unity through his contemporary inspirational songs and solo piano works.

Gary is very excited to announce the release of his debut album, "The Pathlighters and the Traveler", which came out on Dec. 23, 2011.