Michael Yates is a dedicated educator who has worked for the Halton District School Board for the past 12 years. Michael has spent the last 10 years as the Head of Music at Pilgrim Wood Public School where he runs the intermediate band program. He has designed and implemented an instrumental music program that is highly respected throughout the HDSB and is known for high standards, engagement and student excellence.
Michael’s journey into music education began at Mohawk College where he completed a three-year diploma in jazz performance. In 2011, he obtained his Honours Bachelors of Music from McMaster University and was commended for his efforts with the Shannon Reeves Scholarship and Award. In 2013 Michael completed his Bachelor of Education at Nipissing University (Schulich School of Education) through the iTeach laptop-learning program. Michael was extremely successful in his program and was recognized by the university when he was awarded the Cynthia Johnson Memorial Award – an honour bestowed upon a graduating student who displays a positive attitude, strong work ethic and a passion to educate others in music.
Michael is currently a steady gigging musician in the Hamilton, Halton and Toronto areas. He is also the active drummer in the “After Hours” jazz band directed by Canadian jazz legend Mike Malone. This 20 piece jazz orchestra performs throughout the Hamilton region regularly.
