A composer and percussionist from Northern California, Michael Chang (b. 2009) began writing music at the age of 6. He studies composition at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College while writing for solo instruments, chamber ensembles, vocal groups, concert bands, orchestra, and film.

​

Michael's compositions have received numerous honors, including winner of the CMS Young Composers Competition, first place in NACUSA’s Nancy Bloomer Deussen Competition, two-time finalist in the ASCAP Morton Gould Awards, in addition to receiving accolades from the National Federation of Music Clubs and the Bay Area Creative Foundation. He was the recipient of the Victor Salvo Scholarship from the San Francisco Contemporary Music Players and was chosen as a Laureate Composer by Sound Espressivo. In 2026, Michael was one of two artists inducted into MTAC’s Young Composers Guild. His work has been premiered at Carnegie Hall and at venues across the country.

​

As a percussionist, Michael has performed at the local, state and national levels, including two notable performances at Carnegie Hall. He has served as first chair percussionist with the California All-State Wind Symphony and performed with the All-Northern California Honor Band, as well as at Disneyland and Stanford University’s Jazz Showcase. As a conductor, Michael has led the Cabrillo Festival Contemporary Music Youth Ensemble and recently traveled to Hungary to serve as a guest conductor for the Budapest Scoring Orchestra.

​

Michael currently studies with Arkadi Serper, Dr. Joseph Sowa, Huei-Yuan Pan, and Dr. Christopher Koelzer.