At the ripe age 17, Michael formally launched his singing career with his debut performance at the Pantheon in Rome.  Since then, Michael has gone on to perform at numerous prestigious events throughout Canada, including the Mississauga Canada Day Celebrations in 2008, the Center Stage Benefit Concert, and both the 2006 and 2007 ‘Knight for Hope’ concerts alongside Michael Burgess and The Nylons. Recently, Michael has just returned from a nationally broadcast concert performance in Pisticci (pis-tee-chi), Italy in honour of the late Johnny Lombardi.

 

Drawing from his Italian heritage and roots in classical singing, Michael has created a musical style that highlights his powerful voice. He released his first album, ‘Vieni Sul Mar - A Collection of Italian Songs’ in 2004. The album, which has sold 2000 copies primarily through concert sales only, continues to sell and has been a catalyst in creating a very large fan base for Michael across Canada. Since his first release, Michael has focused his efforts toward composing and performing his own music. “Music is my way of communicating” says Michael, “and I’ve always loved writing songs – even before I studied classical voice. For me, it’s a different connection that you make with the audience. It really is like opening yourself up for everyone to see, hear, and feel.” With many new compositions underway, Michael is set to release his first original album in 2009.

 

Despite his busy schedule performing, composing, and recording, Michael was able to obtain a Bachelor of Music from the Royal Conservatory’s Glenn Gould School. Studying classical voice allowed Michael to properly train his voice and to learn his technical skill from some of Canada’s finest music teachers. Michael’s tastes in music are very eclectic and he is constantly adding elements of many musical genres to his repertoire: “The more I learn and study different styles of music, the more I want to reach out and try new things.”

 

Michael’s focus thus far has been balance. Though music is his primary love, he credits his Italian genes for his love of cooking. He enjoys playing football, and likes to relax with his family and friends as much as possible. He maintains his commitment to various charities; performing at events for organizations such as Wellspring, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Red Cross Foundation, and the United Way.

 

Michael Ciufo continues to work hard to achieve his goals.  He is grateful for his loving and supportive family and for the gifts he has received.  He continues to win over fans with his mature poise, approachability, and a voice that Amazing Canadian Magazine describes as a “powerful presence that fills a room with a melody and moves people to feel strong emotion.” At only 22 years-old, Michael’s young career has just begun and he is more than ready for the journey ahead.

 

-September 2008-