A native New Yorker and piano player with extraordinary talent from the age of 5.He graduated from The High School Of Music and Art, and went on to receive his Bachelors and Master Degrees in Music and Composition from The Manhattan School of Music in New York City, and was a recipient of a BMI Young Composers Award in 1979. Since his recital debut in 1983 at the International Tanzwerkstatt in Bonn,Germany Mr.Cherry has remained active throughout the Americas,Europe and Asia, both as a concert pianist soloist as well with orchestras. Performing with ”profound involvement and sensitivity’ to enthusiastic audiences, Mr.Cherry has had the honor to perform for the United Nations Peace-keeping Forces Nobel Peace Prize Celebration,the 2006 PBS Performances from White House, at The Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center and beyond.

For over 45 years now, Mr.Cherry has been a committed collaborator with the art of Dance and one of the most resourceful and sought after pianists in the world of classical ballet. A prolific class and rehearsal piano accompanist with various world renowned dance institutions including The American Ballet Theatre, Dance Theater of Harlem, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater,Ballet Hispanico and Limon Dance Company

Cherry's discography includes 9 albums where he served as a principal pianist and class accompanist. These works were produced in collaboration with notable figures like Ballet Master David Howard, Ballet Mistress Antonniette Pelosi, his long-time piano teacher Willian Daghlian, and JazzHead Records. On March 31st, 2023, Cherry released "Music for Ballet Class: Looking Through The Rainbow," in collaboration with independent record producer Farin Kautz and executive producer Gleidson Hoffmann. This album marks the beginning of a series of 8 records and performances scheduled for release during 2023/2024.

These upcoming projects highlight Cherry's continued innovation and dedication to the fusion of music and ballet, promising to enchant and engage audiences with new and compelling performances. His commitment to ballet and music education is evident through these collaborations, which continue to inspire dancers and musicians alike.

The series will include "Music For Ballet Class: New York Excelsior" on May 15th, 2023, "Musical Jewels from Bach To Bartok" on July 15th, and "Shades of Blue," a collaboration with classical singer Steven Su, set for release on September 1st, 2023. Music for Ballet Class Women’ Pointe Work and Music For Ballet Class Men’s Work in October and November of 2023. Upcoming albums include a series of records for children in primary though grade levels.

Michael invites you to join him on an exhilarating journey through the heart of piano music. Experience the genius of Bach, the emotional depth of Beethoven, the heartfelt poignancy of Schumann, the brilliance of Liszt, and the rhythmic fire of Bartók. Prepare to be transported and deeply moved at an unforgettable evening at Merkin Hall, "Michael Cherry: Piano Jewels from Bach to Bartok," on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at 7:30 pm. This promises to be a night of inspiration and sublime musicality, showcasing the enduring beauty and power of piano music.