The Michael Kelsey Band

Michael Kelsey infuses his acoustic guitar with a free-flowing improvisational flair, engaging every inch of the instrument. His funky, percussive style evokes a one-man version of STOMP, while his lush instrumentals reminiscent of Michael Hedges and Phil Keaggy. Incorporating vocals and techno elements, his performances seamlessly blend diverse musical genres. When joined by his band, they deliver a mix of original compositions and carefully curated cover songs, connecting with audiences across various settings.

Winner of Guitar Center’s prestigious “Guitarmageddon” competition, Michael emerged triumphant from a pool of 3,000 entrants. His talents shone at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads 2004, where he shared the stage with guitar legends. Throughout his shows, Michael utilizes technology, improvisational skills, and audience interaction, often incorporating objects from the environment, creating not just music for the ears, but a full-bodied sensory musical experience.

Quotes

“Michael uses an arsenal of electronics, his Taylor 615, and his voice to create layers of sonic adventures that challenge the limits of acoustic guitar music.”
-Taylor Guitars 

“A fearless experimenter, Kelsey is an acoustic guitarist who weaves a multitude of unusual sounds and rhythms into his patchwork quilt of work. Part performance artist and part virtuoso musician. Kelsey takes the widest possible variety of music and makes it his own.”
-Nuvo Magazine,Indianapolis, IN

"A crowd estimated at over 15,000 listened intensely as Indianapolis, Indiana’s Michael Kelsey played the winning performance on his Taylor 615 acoustic guitar. Kelsey received a thunderous standing ovation, despite the 91-degree temperature."
-Mix Magazine

Sample Video

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