COMING UP
Coming Up
MIKE BOLGER ENSEMBLE "BOLGER'S CRYSTALS" EP RELEASE CELEBRATION AT THE BARKLEY 1/31
Who is Mike Bolger?
Michael Bolger: Multi-Instrumentalist, Composer, Educator
Michael Bolger’s musical career is defined by its remarkable diversity, both in the instruments he plays and the genres he explores. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Michael’s proficiency spans brass instruments like trumpet, and valve trombone, alongside keyboard instruments including accordion. This wide-ranging skill set allows him to move seamlessly between musical worlds, from jazz to rock to film and television.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Michael’s love for music began at an early age, leading him to study at UCLA and CalArts, where he earned a BFA in Jazz Trumpet in 1997. Since then, his career has flourished, earning him a place among some of the most respected musicians in the industry. He’s lent his talents to an impressive roster of artists, including Jewel, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ry Cooder, and Jimmy Cliff, while also making his mark on television with his work on SpongeBob SquarePants, for which he received a 2013 BMI TV Music Award.
Michael’s performing career continues to thrive in the vibrant Los Angeles music scene, where he can be heard in a variety of ensembles, playing everything from trumpet to accordion and valve trombone. A passionate educator, he has taught at the Silverlake Conservatory of Music since its inception in 2001, and the California Dance Institute since 2015 since 2015, nurturing the next generation of musicians.
Currently, Michael is always coming up with something new—learning, composing, arranging, and performing and is releasing a new EP in 2025 featuring original jazz compositions. His dedication to musical growth and his versatile talents make him an invaluable force in the world of music today.