Michael Moon Collier
Biography
School/Class: Roswell High School, Class of 2030
ASO Instructor: Gloria Jones Allgood
Other Musical Affiliations: Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, Fulton County Youth Orchestra, Alpharetta Symphony Youth Orchestra
Summer Camps: ASO VIVO Summer String Institute, Florida State University String Orchestra Camp
Michael’s musical journey began with studying guitar, drums, and piano before he began playing the double bass at age ten in his school orchestra. He fondly recalls the moment when “the bass chose him.” Seven months later, while preparing for the GMEA District 5 Honors Orchestra Clinic, Michael asked his parents for private lessons, leading to two years of study with Dr. James Barket.
In 2026, he joined the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) Talent Development Program (TDP) and currently studies with ASO bassist Gloria Jones Allgood. He was also the recipient of the 2025 Wirth Music Scholarship, which included 18 weeks of private study with ASO bassist Karl Fenner.
Beyond his TDP studies, he currently performs with the Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra and his school’s Mastery Orchestra. His previous ensemble experience includes serving as principal bassist with the Fulton County Youth Orchestra and Alpharetta Symphony Youth Orchestra, as well as principal bassist and section leader with the Crabapple Middle School Orchestra. In 2026, Michael earned a seat in GMEA All-State Orchestra I and received two Superior ratings at GMEA Solo and Ensemble.
His musical experiences also include the ASO VIVO Summer String Institute, Florida State University String Orchestra Camp, and a 2024 masterclass with double bassist and composer Xavier Foley. In 2025, he attended the UGA International Double Bass Symposium, where he performed in a masterclass ensemble alongside Luis Cabrera, principal bassist of the Barcelona Symphony, and Dr. Milton Masciadri of the University of Georgia.
Looking ahead, Michael is especially drawn to the vivid imagery found within orchestral music, often imagining the interplay between different sections of the orchestra. His goal is to become a professional orchestral bassist, and he is intentionally building his musical education toward that career. Through TDP, Michael hopes to continue developing the mentorship, training, and experience that will prepare him for collegiate bass study and, ultimately, a career in a professional orchestra.
Outside of music, Michael enjoys photography, creative writing, hiking, biking, rollerblading, and spending time with family, friends, and his two rescue dogs.