About Michael Burkhardt
Michael Burkhardt is an internationally recognized American composer, organist, choral clinician, and educator, celebrated for his profound contributions to sacred music. His primary musical style blends traditional hymnody with innovative improvisational techniques, enriching congregational singing and inspiring musicians across various disciplines. Burkhardt's overall significance lies in his dynamic leadership of hymn festivals, his dedication to music education for children, and his prolific output of accessible yet artful compositions for organ, choir, and handbells.
- He is particularly well-known for his innovative and inspiring hymn festivals, leading events for prominent organizations such as the American Guild of Organists and The Hymn Society.
- Beyond his compositions, Burkhardt is also an accomplished author, having written several educational resources including "Part-Singing Global Style" and "Singing with Understanding," which focus on sequential part-singing techniques and utilizing hymns to teach music and worship.
- His extensive career includes serving as Director of Worship and the Arts at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Livonia, Michigan, and as Artist-Professor of Organ at Eastern Michigan University.
- He has made multiple performance-teaching tours to South Korea and Singapore, demonstrating his international influence and commitment to music education globally.
Michael Burkhardt's sheet music is ideally suited for church musicians of all skill levels, from intermediate organists and choral directors to handbell ensembles and children's choirs. His compositions, which often include hymn arrangements, liturgies, and original works, are known for their blend of accessibility and musical depth. Performing his music offers a rewarding experience by providing thoughtfully crafted pieces that enhance worship services, encourage congregational participation, and allow musicians to engage with rich harmonic language and engaging melodic lines. His arrangements, often incorporating various instruments and voicings, make his music versatile and highly adaptable for diverse church settings.