The Power of Music, Teamwork, and Mastery
Michael Graham’s first passion and pursuit of excellence began with music. From the moment he picked up a trombone at age 10, he discovered the power of discipline, harmony, and performance – skills that would shape his approach to leadership, teamwork, and personal mastery throughout his life.
Michael’s exceptional musicianship led him to perform on some of the world’s biggest stages. He played televised trombone solos at the 1981 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium and during NFL halftime shows for the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Raiders at the Los Angeles Coliseum and Anaheim Stadium. His talent earned him a music scholarship to Azusa Pacific University, where he continued to refine his craft.
One of the defining experiences of Michael’s musical career was touring internationally with the Continental Brass and Singers and the Continental Singers and Orchestra. Over the course of two separate 10-week tours, he performed 160 concerts in 20 weeks across the United States, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands.
As both a supporting ensemble member and a featured soloist, he learned the value of precision, adaptability, and emotional expression—qualities that transcend music and apply to leadership, teamwork, and personal success.
The Lessons Music Taught About Leadership & Life
Michael’s dedication to excellence in music was evident early on. At Arcadia High School, he was awarded:
- Most Outstanding Sophomore Musician
- Most Outstanding Junior Musician
- Musician of the Year (Senior Year)
- President of the Band and Leader / Director of the Pep Band
- Superior Ratings in Local and Regional Solo Festival Competitions across Southern California
He also performed in the top honor ensembles in California, including the All-City Honor Band, All-Southern California Honor Band, and the prestigious All-State Honor Band – each multiple times.
Through these experiences, Michael developed the skills of:
- Showing up, on time, prepared, and ready to perform at a high level.
- Working in tune and in harmony with others while following the leadership of a director.
- Stepping up as a soloist, taking center stage, and delivering under pressure.
- Leading an ensemble with precision and vision to create something greater than the sum of its parts.
Music is more than notes on a page—it is a lesson in discipline, collaboration, and mastery. Michael’s experience as a musician, performer, and leader directly influences his work today as a speaker, coach, and trainer, teaching others how to orchestrate success, perform under pressure, and work in harmony with a greater vision.
