Award-winning Billboard© instrumental artist. Elegant, portable, expressive, and versatile. What if the guitar and piano had a baby? That would be 'The Stick"- a little-known American stringed instrument that is played more like a piano and a guitar. With just over 8,000 of these instruments in existence, few are even aware of it. Michael was one of the late Emmett Chapman's very first students and one of the earliest pioneers of The Chapman Stick®- playing it exclusively since 1976. He is the considered the instrument's most prolific recording artist.

Michael's music has received countless awards and nominations worldwide. His last three albums have charted in the Top 5 on the Billboard New Age chart and made waves on other industry charts, as well. He has received airplay in over 50 countries and is played regularly on many airline Spa channels and in 1200 hospitals nationwide on The CARE Channel. Carlos Santana met Michael at a festival on Maui and said his music "made me feel good the moment I heard it". He also said Michael's music was "a gift of the heart".

The Chapman Stick® sounds unlike any other instrument and Michael can provide the perfect instrumental soundtrack for ANY wedding or reception without the requirements, volume, or cost of an entire band. Although still little-known to the general public, 'The Stick' is probably the most ideal solo instrument for weddings. The soft, romantic sounds enhance any event and make it even more memorable than conventional instruments like guitar or harp. Both the instrument and player are truly a one-of-a-kind.

In the last 30+ years, Michael has performed for hundreds of corporate events and weddings, and it has earned him a reputation for talent, professionalism, and reliability. He is a former member of both the Maui Wedding Association and the Sacramento Association of Wedding Pros. Many corporate clients have hired him again and again to add something special and unique to their events. Allow him to do the same for your wedding.

Michael is also an inspirational speaker (keynote artist), author of the popular book 'Stick With It' and an avid aviator.

You can listen to his music on Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, and hundreds of other digital sites. His music is also on Amazon, iTunes, CD Baby, Bandcamp, and other music outlets. His book, 'Stick With It' is available on Amazon Prime.

What others have said:

"Thank you for being a key component in making our wedding so fantastic. When picking a musician for our wedding, we wanted someone who could capture the mood and love we have for each other, but as well as all the ppl that were there. You not only did both, but brought something else to the night that didn’t go unnoticed by us or our guests. You’re truly incredible, talented and kind. The ambiance and atmosphere your music created was utter perfection. We are happy to refer you to everyone we know and any strangers that may ask. There are not enough words to truly thank you again: you were such a key part in our wedding evening being so beautiful." - Jon & Rachel Boutilier, San Tan Valley, AZ 6/18/22

“Our day would not be the same without you here. Thank you for bringing our ceremony vision to life and performing with Jamie’s friend. We feel truly honored to have you here and cannot wait to experience the beautiful Chapman Stick”- Jamie & Nate, Chicago, IL 5/1/22

"We looked at websites and listened to solo violinists, guitarists, and harps, but couldn’t find anything that we liked that sounded good on its own. In order to get the sound we wanted, we realized we would have to book at least two musicians. Luckily, we came across Michael Kollwitz with his Chapman Stick!" - Ryan & Taryn Cherico, S. Salt Lake City, UT

"Mike was the perfect addition to our fall Sedona wedding. His instrument (The Chapman Stick) is unique and captivating. He is attentive, responsive and a genuinely kind human being" - Kathryn Ernest, Maricopa, AZ

"I had never heard of nor seen anyone play a Chapman Stick before. However, we were all very pleased at our Sedona wedding in Nov. 2019 when you introduced us to your beautiful music. In addition, your professional manner and skills are a true delight" - Rodger Althoff MD, Seattle, WA

"The music you played at our wedding in Sedona was beautiful and at the reception dinner as well. We received so many compliments from our guests!" - Frank & Victoria Vasquez, Phoenix, AZ

"Michael played the enchanting Chapman Stick for our son's wedding reception. The music was ideal for the cool October evening. He was gracious and accomodating. His music made our evening even more special!" - Cathy Gurnett, Rochester, NY

Feel free to browse references from other happy past clients over the years:

https://www.facebook.com/pg/michaelkollwitzsolo/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10150890432886243