Michael Sweeney

Michael Sweeney is a graduate of Indiana University (Bloomington), where he studied music education. In addition, he studied composition with Bernard Heiden, John Eaton and Donald Erb. Mr. Sweeney taught five years in the public schools of Ohio and Indiana, where his teaching experience included working with successful concert, jazz and marching programs at all levels from elementary to high school. Since 1982, he has worked full-time for Hal Leonard Corporation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the largest publisher of printed music in the world. In his present position as Director of Band Publications, Mr. Sweeney is directly responsible for the development, production, recording and marketing of new publications for school bands. He also contributes as a composer and arranger in all instrumental areas. Michael is particularly known for his writing at the younger levels for concert band and jazz. Since 1982, Hal Leonard has published over 500 of his compositions and arrangements. His works appear on numerous state contest lists and his music is regularly performed throughout the world. An ASCAP award-winning composer, his “Ancient Voices” (1994) is included in the 100 best-known and respected band compositions analyzed in the 1997 GIA Publication Teaching Music Through Performance in Band. In addition, his composition “Imperium” (1992) is featured in the 2001 GIA Publication Teaching Music Through Performance in Beginning Band. Michael is in high demand as a clinician and conductor for honor bands and festivals.