Michael Kollwitz & The Chapman Stick

Artist Information

Biography

Michael was introduced to The Chapman Stick* in 1976 by inventor Emmett Chapman. He became one of Chapman’s first students and he’s considered one of the instrument’s top performers. His instrumental music is a relaxing blend of jazz, blues and pop with a distinct Hawaiian flair.

He’s performed extensively throughout California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii. In addition to over a thousand shows at every imaginable venue, he’s been an opening act for The Beach Boys, Henry Kapono and The Goo Goo Dolls. His client list includes everyone from Fortune 500 companies to civic organizations. He continues to perform both solo and with other musicians at festivals, fairs and some of Maui’s most prestigious resorts and events.

Michael has been featured on numerous TV and radio programs- both regionally and nationwide- including both “All Things Considered” and “Morning Edition” on NPR. In May ‘07, CurrentTV purchased rights to one of his videos for national broadcast. He’s also been featured in many newspapers, magazines and other media. His DVD “Live In Concert” is aired frequently by Maui’s Akaku TV.

As an independent artist, Michael has had 15 releases in the last 12 years. This includes 12 audio CDs, a DVD and 2 digital download albums. In ‘06, he released the first ever digital download album of solo Chapman Stick music on iTunes. His CD, “Waterfallin’“ was the first to feature the new, higher-range Alto Stick. “Under The Banyan Tree”, was recorded live in Old Lahaina with Native American flutes and his CD, “Hawaiian Paradise”, includes duos with Hawaiian steel guitar.

"The Chapman Stick Meets The Beatles" features 16 tracks of popular Beatles tunes, all performed solo in the studio using nothing but The Chapman Stick. The CD was recorded, mixed and mastered in Paia, Maui by Dave Russell (Steely Dan, Doobie Bros., Michael McDonald).

His latest release, "Rainbows" was recorded live under the banyan tree in Lahaina on the new Chapman Stick Guitar (SG-12). It is the first CD to ever feature the new SG-12 Stick Guitar exclusively.

Videos and TV appearance clips available at http://www.YouTube.com/stikmstr

Instrumentation

MICHAEL KOLLWITZ - The Chapman Stick® (Grand, Alto & SG12 models)

Discography

"Rainbows" (January 2012)
"The Chapman Stick meets The Beatles" (May 2011)
"Suntan Lady" (August 2010)
"Under The Banyan Tree" (January 2009)
"Hawaiian Paradise" (August 2008)
"Greatest Hits- Vol. 2" - digital download (December 2007)
"Live In Concert"- full length DVD (October 2006)
"20 Greatest Hits"- digital download (October 2006)
“Waterfallin’” (April 2006)
“Here Comes Spring” (May 2005)
“Frosty The Stickman” (December 2004)
“Memories” (May 2004)
“Carnival” (December 2003)
“Moments” (March 2003)
“Steppin’ Out” (January 2000)

Links

• Facebook
• MySpace
• YouTube

Audio

• Blue Hawaii
  Listen  
• Daydream
  Listen  
• White Sandy Beach
  Listen  
• Help!
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• Somewhere Over The Rainbow
  Listen  

Video

Photo Gallery

Press

• QUOTES [+ Show ]
  

  “An impressive and gifted performer” - Emmett Chapman, Inventor of Stick® 3/3/96 “Awesome!” - Her...“An impressive and gifted performer” - Emmett Chapman, Inventor of Stick® 3/3/96
  
  “Awesome!” - Herbie Hancock, Jazz Keyboardist, Phoenix, AZ 5/24/97
  
  “The instrument and music were fantastic!” - Pam Currier, Motorola, Inc. (Scientific and Technical Society Patent Administration) Tempe, AZ 5/31/95
  
  “The amount of talent a Stick player has is most evident on solo pieces where the player literally has to become a one-man band. Using such a guideline would rank Mike Kollwitz among the very best. His solo pieces feature dazzling displays of a veritable cornucopia of music...” - Willie Moseley, reviewer for Vintage Guitar magazine 2/26/93
  
  “The man is a master” – Dave Bender, Weather Anchor, KOVR-13 Sacramento 5/23/03
  
  “Your music is absolutely incredible. No one could believe the music was the result of just one instrument” - Sandy DuFour, The Warner Group, Sacramento, CA 5/25/99
  
  “Only musician we’ve had that gets people to clap- repeatedly- during their dinners!” - George Gonzalez, Horseshoe Bar Grill, Loomis, CA 4/16/03
  
  “Your excellent musicianship, along with the uniqueness of The Chapman Stick, proved to be real crowd pleasers for our audiences. Aside from these qualities, your flexibility, desire to please and friendly personality make you a real joy to work with” - Mike Styles, Blockbuster Desert Sky Pavilion, Phoenix, AZ 11/1/94
  
  “Your performance was a real treat for both young and old alike. We had numerous comments from people attending the event who were not only impressed with your exceptional musical skills, but also your unique instrument. The Chapman Stick is a crowd pleaser in its own right and we were fortunate to have you as a part of our event. Your enthusiasm, talent and expressive performance are extraordinary and very entertaining” - Robin Smith, City of Scottsdale, AZ (Airport Administration) 4/19/93
  
  “Your dependability and professionalism makes working with you very enjoyable! To future bookings!” - Kevin Koziol, Image Entertainment Productions, Tempe, AZ 4/4/94
  
  “The perfect selection for both corporate events and concert and club venues” - Marguerite Berry, Encore Entertainment, Phoenix, AZ 1/97
  
  “He has not only our recommendation, but our highest recommendation” - Ruth Shillingburg, Paul Arena Production Group, Scottsdale, AZ 1/97
  
  "Your playing The Stick at our Mesa Leadership meeting was positively wonderful. Participants loved the sound, loved your playing and your personality. You are a most gracious and giving person and performer. What a treat it is for the Valley that you decided to move here." - Nancy A. Wolter, Performing Arts Supervisor, City of Mesa, AZ 12/7/93
  
  “Mike is a skilled performer and consummate professional- my clients love it” - Lou Baskin, SRO Entertainment, Phoenix, AZ 12/96
  
  “Your degree of professionalism is exceptional. Would be honored to be a reference” - Anne Owens, City of Glendale, AZ 2/26/93
  
  "I have known Michael Kollwitz since December 1976 when he bought one of my very first instruments and became one of my first music students. Since then Mike has been taking lessons from me periodically, and I have watched him steadily improve and develop a solid basis of music technique and theory on which to perform. Mike was a pioneer when he first recognized the musical potential of The Stick, and his music is growing in originality all the time. Mike is a sincere and dedicated musician, who has deep respect and commitment to his work, and who combines these qualities with surprising off-the-wall expressiveness that communicated powerfully from the stage" - Emmett Chapman, Inventor of Stick® 3/29/82
  
  "Thank you for entertaining at our event. We broke attendance records and I know it is, in part, because of your skills" - Amy Oppio, Nevada Museum of Art, Reno, NV 11/10/97
  
  “You were a smashing hit not only with our employees but with our Publisher” - Lydia Kennedy, Reno Gazette-Journal, Reno, NV 7/21/97
  
  “Whenever he has played in the Phoenix area people are in awe of both his musicianship and The Stick. When he plays he sounds like two guitars and an electric bass all playing together when, in fact, he plays alone but his ten fingers dance nimbly over the twelve strings creating this illusion. He is a marvelous self-contained act who needs no accompaniment.” - Charles Swan, President, Jazz in AZ, Inc., Scottsdale, AZ 6/21/97
  
  “Have been nothing but delighted. Performed above and beyond our expectations” - David Ryder, Corporate Destination Services of AZ, Glendale, AZ 5/29/97
  
  "Thanks so much for your great performance at the Asparagus Festival. And thanks for being such a great sport. You saved the day after we lost a performer. You made our jobs much easier and it is greatly appreciated. we would love to have you back next year." - Ann Samuelson, Stockton Asparagus Festival 5/22/05
  
  "One man with one instrument that sounds like a four-piece band! If you're not familiar with the man , or "The Stick", make apoint to experience the performance of Michael Kollwitz, sure to impress you..." - Denise Costa, Reno Tahoe Wine & Food Festival 5/14/05
  
  "Although I have listened to well over 1000 holiday CDs over the years, I can honestly report that "Frosty The Stickman" is absolutely unique. This is my first (and only) instrumental Christmas album played on The Chapman Stick...If you're looking for a broad range of lovely holiday instrumentals, get on the stick-- The Chapman Stick-- with Michael Kollwitz" - Carol Swanson, reviewer for ChristmasReviews.com 11/9/04
  
  "Sweet, soothing sounds" is how Kollwitz describes his work. By his styling, you can tell he is enjoying what he's doing. Lighthearted, whimsical in his approach, on his release "Moments", he mixes originals with recognizable material ranging from classical, Broadway, jazz, rock and Hendrix's "Little Wing" - Voodoo Child magazine Spring 2005 (Issue 67)
  
  "Instrumentalist Michael Kollwitz is one of the top Chapman Stick players in the world...The Stick-man will hold you spellbound..." - Placer County Strawberry Festival 4/10/05
  
  "Thank you for performing at this year's Stockton Asparagus Festival. Your generosity, cooperation and friendly spirit made it especially pleasurable working with you. You can be assured that your fine performances contributed greatly to the overall success of the Festival" - Cindy Hong, Stockton Asparagus Festival 4/28/04
  
  "Your Chapman Stick performance was an excellent touch to the flavor of Sandra & Tom's wedding. They made an excellent choice in having you play. I'm recommending you to all my clients." - Gail Rainwater, Events To Remember 10/8/03
  
  "I can't thank you enough for this beautiful CD. As a guitar player myself I am astonished by this lovely instrument that, until you, did not know existed. Really great music." - Mohan, 21st Century Futures, Dana Point, CA 8/3/03
  
  "Thank you for being a part of Merriment on Main 2003. Your performance was excellent! We had close to 15,000 people there that night, and many of them enjoyed your music. Thank you for helping to make the event such a success" - Shauna Manina, The Reporter (newspaper) Vacaville, CA 12/5/03
  
  "We loved your Chapman Stick. It lent a very festive air to your part of the show" - Chris Palmer, Palmer & Wirfs Events, Portland, OR 12/19/03
  
  "I have lots of Stick music that I listened to once, because I didn't like it. Yours however, will be in rotation for some time to come."
  - Chris Crain (author of The Sticktionary) 12/1/03
  
  "VERY RELAXING... A COMBO OF DJANGO RHINEHARDT AND STANLEY JORDAN..." - Skip Floraday 3/3/04
  
  "You are doing something great with your music and your rapport with your audience." - Jeff Hayes 4/25/04
  
  "Your album “Moments” that I got at the Asparagus Festival on Saturday is wonderfully soothing and enjoyable.
  God Bless You, and thank you for your contributions to music." - Victor Picinich 4/26/04
  
  "I have been bragging about your music to my family and friends. It was a honor to have met you." Erica Jiminez 5/14/04
  
  "I don't know how you did it, but Memories is the best yet." - Allan Mosier 5/24/04
  
  "Many thanks for the new CD. It is wonderful, as usual, thought the Roy and Dale "Happy Trails" ending was a great touch." - Gary Reeder 5/24/04
  
  "I love the "Moments" CD and will certainly get the new "Memories" when I am there. My friends here enjoy your music and will be eager to hear a new CD." - Diane Grove 5/26/04
  
  "It was a pleasure seeing you play this last week outside of Trader Joe's . The CD's are incredible!" - Ron Noel 6/8/04
  
  "Michael, I have been playing your NEW CD, it's great, and it has given me a lot of relaxing moments. When I get home from work, I sit down with a glass of good wine and turn on your CD and fade away for a wail into my dream world of relaxation. Your music certainly relieves the stress of the day." - Andy Clausen 6/11/04
  
  "I just want to say that The Chapman Stick is really, really cool. My class and I went to the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee and my teacher (who is a bass player like me) and I walked past and spotted The Stick. We got lost in the music. I just want to say how cool it is. IT'S VERY COOL!- Kate Peneyra 6/13/04
  
  "I wanted you to know I found you by accident this morning. While searching for photo borders, I found your letter of reference from the manager of Borders. Intrigued, I traced it back to your website. Having no experience with the Chapman Stick, I downloaded a track, then another, and another. I was sufficiently impressed to order Carnival and Steppin' Out. The sound is beautiful, the melodies infectious, and the technical play incredible. Two-minute snippets made me an instant fan." - Darren Somsen 6/18/04
  
  "I've seen you perform a few times and I really enjoy your gift and your music. You are truly an incredibly talented musician!" - Darren Bocksnick 6/30/04
  
  "MY DAUGHTER, KELSEY AND I HAD THE EXTREME PLEASURE OF HEARING YOU PLAY ON OUR BRIEF TRIP TO SACRAMENTO THIS SPRING. I BOUGHT 2 OF YOUR CDS AND PLAN TO ROUND OUT MY COLLECTION WITH THE LAST TWO INCLUDING THE NEW ONE I HAVE NOT HEARD. I PLAY YOUR MUSIC ALL THE TIME,TURN MY MANY FRIENDS AND MASSAGE CLIENTS ON TO IT TOO. I WOULD LOVE TO HELP YOU FIND A VENUE HERE TO PLAY FOR US MANY VENTURANS WHO WOULD ENJOY YOUR MOST UNUSUAL AND BEAUTIFUL MUSIC. I COULD PROBABLY FILL A SMALL HALL WITH MY OWN FRIENDS." - Nancy & Kelsey Ventura, CA
  7/7/04
  
  "just a short note...wanted to let you know how much i enjoyed your music on the "chapman stick" my wife and i saw you at the reno rib cookoff yesterday...the sounds coming from you almost brought me to tears...awesome! we purchased your "memories" cd...and almost wore it out on the way home to carson city. again..thanks so much for a beautiful experience..." - Tom Simmons Carson City, NV 9/7/04
  
  "My name is Veronica and my boyfriend Ron and I met you in Tahoe last summer. We love your music!" Veronica & Ron 9/16/04
  
  "I have 2 of your CD's which are Steppin' out and Moments. I purchased those CD's at Lake Tahoe 2 years ago. You were my inspiration. I understand you have 2 other CD's and I want the whole collection. OH ya DO You Give Lessons? I wanna learn it from the best guy! PLease Oh PLease!!! " - Mitchell Narvasa Concord, CA 9/21/04
  
  "I attended the Harvest Festival today and bought 2 of your cd's and I am in awe. You are fantastic. I plan on ordering several for Christmas gifts. I swear if I didn't know better, that you are playing more than one insturment. So soothing and wonderful Thanks for some decent music" - Pcain163@aol.com 9/25/04
  
  "O great Stick Master, I humbly bow before thee! Your CD is great! Such a pleasure to listen to your years of hard work on the instrument. Espaola is probably my favorite, but it's hard to choose, it's all so good. It's my favorite original with NSEW a close second. I love the arrangement of Angel (I'm a Hendrix freak from way back, I saw him 4 times live and was lost when he left us). Song for my father has always been a favorite and you really made it shine, loved the "sax" at the end. I played it for a bunch of guys at work and they were very impressed and rightly so." - Rick Cucuzza Prescott, AZ 10/6/04
  
  "...may you continue- you make wonderful music. Peace and love" - Katie Gomez 10/10/04
  
  "My wife and I heard Joe Conti ( http://www.joeconti.com/ ) playing in Kona, Hawaii earlier this year, which was our first experience hearing the Chapman Stick. Needless to say we love the music, since we enjoy smooth jazz and new age music. I found your website via Google, and enjoyed listening to your music on CD Baby. I'm looking forward to obtaining your entire collection of music, including your new Christmas CD." - Wes Jay Harstine Island, WA 10/22/04
  
  "We would love to have you back again - I got a lot of positive comments from people about your music." - Shauna Manina Vacaville, CA 11/3/04
  
  "Michael is a remarkable player of a very unique instrument, the Chapman Stick. He recently performed the opening set at the Sacramento Traditional Jazz Society and wowed the audience." - Bob Ringwald Placerville, CA 11/6/04
  
  "Happened to catch you on Channel 18 here in Sacto. What a marvelous instrument! I've listened to several audio clips and am passing the word to many friends. Thanks for your music. I just have to decide which CD to buy first!" - Melinda 7/9/03
  
  "I saw you at the health and hormony festival in Santa Rosa a few weeks ago and was really inspired by your stickery." - Danny Castro 7/4/03
  
  "Frosty arrived today and, of course, I had to preview it even though the season is a little ways off yet. It was great!" - Sharon Kolacny Tempe, AZ 11/12/04
  
  "Also, keep me on your mailing list, I love hearing about you and your music! I gotta tell you, one of my proudest musical experiences was working with you. If you ever come back here, or just want to play with me again, I'll be there! " - Jason Kay (drummer) Scottsdale, AZ 12/1/04
  
  "Michael, I don't know about you. You get better with each CD you come out with. I have been so busy I've only had time to listen to FROSTY one time but it's GREAT!" - Al and Mary Lou Mosier 12/3/04
  
  " I picked up your cd, moments, a couple of years ago in santa rosa at the fair. Love the music and the instrument is amazing." - Angie Antang 12/6/04
  
  "Hello There, I gave Frosty the Stick Man to my wife Xmas morning. She liked it very much. We played it every morning thru the NEW YEAR." - Darwin De Bois (in the deep woods of Idaho) 1/11/05
  
  "Keep doing what you do, your awesome. We absolutely love the Frosty tunes." - Jeff & Amy Page West Sacramento, CA 1/25/05
  
  "...as I write this, I am listening to your ³Memories¹ CD and I just want to take a moment to thank you for all the time and
  dedication you¹ve spent over the years developing your music & chops. I know there have been countless hours of practice and playing for no one but yourself and possibly family. No packed houses with audiences cheering, no applause and no accolades. Doing all of this solely for your own enjoyment was reward enough. Hopefully you have reached a point now
  where you are now enjoying some very positive feedback from your many fans. I just wanted to put my 2 cents in as well and say thank you so much for your wonderful and beautiful music." - Richard Lechner Chatsworth, CA 2/17/05
  
  "My husband and I were so enthralled with you today at the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee that I had to look you up as soon as I got home! You are phenomenal...easily the best we heard all day today!" - Lisa, Manteca, CA 5/30/05
  
  "It was a pleasure to have you again at the Music At Noon series, Michael, and we thank you for taking the time to add a little joy to the lives of our Westminster friends. It is gracious musicians like you who make this free concert serve our community so well. You are smart, you are talented both in art and business, and you are thoroughly professional and deserve much success. (A wise musician who wants to 'go places' can learn a lot from you.) With deep impressions and continued appreciation" - Brad Slocum & "fans" Westminster Presbyterian Church, Sacramento, CA 6/1/05
  
  "GREAT CD's! We're enjoying the beejeepers out of them. I am going to play them between our sets at our rock gigs. You're very talented to play such a complicated instrument with apparent ease - yeah, yeah, I know it takes practice but you got that other part." - David Arrich 6/2/05
  
  "Michael: As I have heard it said "and the hits just keep coming "Here Comes Spring" is great. I have played it a number of times, and truly enjoyed it. Keep them coming, Michael!" - Al & Mary Lou Mosier 6/2/05
  
  "Congratulations on your new CD! Yes, I would love to have your new CD "Here Comes Spring" since my life is full of stress and music is one of the ways how I can relax... Please, let me know if I should send a money order to you. " - Jarka Lovdova, Czech Republic 5/31/05
  
  "I saw you in Old Sac a week or so ago (I was on a break from Jury Duty at the time) and you played one of the songs from the new CD. I've told a number of friends and family about you and the Chapman Stick since I heard you at the Placer County Strawberry Feastival. It's really a unique instrument and I enjoyed hearing it. Good luck with your new CD." - Lynda Turpin 5/20/05
  
  "You should get an award for the most ambitious musician in Sacramento!" - Brad Slocum 4/28/05
  
  "I love your cd's . I dropped one off with my oldest son.Have you ever played any Hard Rock with the Stick, I'm sure he would love to hear that. You know the age , Rock is everything, hahahaha. I hope to expand his musical interests. I'm thinking of getting him a stick. It sounds like a very adaptable instrument. Do you have any recordings of the stick and Rock? Looking forward to hearing you play again." - Tim Anton 3/13/05
  
  "I've recommended your website to the people at work and will keep doing so as the Stick Guitar and you are both awesome. I've had several people ask me to make them copies of your music. I refused and suggested they visit your website and purchase them directly from you." - Bill & Joy Wilkins
  
  "my girlfriend and i really enjoy your cd." - jim noel 3/11/05
  
  "I have been waiting for the opportunity to show your talent to so many people. I think this time would be good. Tesla will be performing and Toni Tone Tony and Ronnie Montrose, we also have one more national act to really help out the Cererbal Palsy children of Stockton. I would like to put you on before the last act which is tesla, I want everyone to see this extraordinary
  performance of yours." Casey (Guitars For Life) 2/25/05
  
  "I will be looking foward to hearing you play again, I love the sound, it goes right to the soul." - Tom 2/8/05
  
  "Congrats! It looks like 2005 will be a big year for you and it's much deserved." - Kari Alexander (KMAX-TV) 1/11/05
  
  "Thank you for performing at our wedding. We just thank God we met by chance, dining at Aioli Bodega and heard you play the Chapman Stick. Bryan and I immediately looked at each other and agreed you were the perfect choice. I am so pleased we gave you freedom to select the proper music which you handled with great finesse. Our family members who obviously had never seen, let alone heard a Chapman Stick were also impressed and commented later at the reception which followed that evening." - Teri & Bryan O'Sullivan, Gold River, CA 11/19/04
  
  "I'm a yoga teacher and I've been using your music in my yoga classes. My students love it because it's soothing and relaxing yet it's lively enough to keep them motivated. Most New Age recordings are too boring and put them to sleep. Your music has just the right amount of liveliness to keep them going. I'd love to purchase your new CD, "Here Comes Spring" to add to my collection of your music." - Sally Pawoll, Escondido, CA 6/13/05
  
  "We will have Michael K. and his Chapman Stick on Friday night. His smooth sounds from this unique instrument have become very popular with our patrons." - Cindy Zibull, owner of Z's Wine Bar & Bistro, El Dorado Hills, CA 6/30/05
  
  "You are amazing! I (and my husband, now!), really love your music. My husband has a 50th BD coming up this year and I was considering music for it. After hearing you, if I do have music, you are the only choice.Thank you so much for your awesome talent and music." - Linda Derouaux, Benicia, CA 7/1/05
  
  "Michael, my wife saw you at the California State Fair and bought three of your CD'S. They are just wonderful! You probably hear this 100 times a day, but we had never heard of a Chapman Stick. I just
  wanted to write a short note of thanks for the pleasure and peace your talent gives us (your music sounds great through our Bose System). I printed out your concert schedule and hope to hear you "live" soon.
  Thanks for sharing your talent!" - Tim Winters, Roseville, CA 9/12/05
  
  "I was at the fair a few Thursdays ago, about four in the afternoon, when we wandered into the food court in search of a corn dog (me) and cinnamon buns (my wife and ten year-old daughter). We were assaulted near the hot tubs by bad rap music turned up to earbleed level. I suggested we high-tail it past the stage and was blessed with the sounds of “Little Wing” on an acoustic guitar. I remember a feeling of relief at hearing some “real music” masterfully played, and didn’t think too much about it after that. I didn’t even realize at the time you were playing live.
  
  As we were leaving the fair around ten p.m., we passed the place we’d heard “Little Wing” and heard a wonderful version of “Stairway to Heaven” emanating from a food vendor. I waited in line five minutes to ask who the artist was— the young woman said, “Oh, it’s the guy who was playing earlier. He gave us one of his CDs.” She showed it to me, and I wrote down your name. When I got home, I ordered four of your albums from CD Baby. Money well spent.
  
  Thanks so much for being at the fair. Ironically, even though we live in the same town, I probably would have never known about your wonderful music if the food vendor hadn’t been playing your “Stepping Out” CD." - Eric Warp, Fair Oaks, CA 9/8/05
  
  "Hi Michael, My, it seems as though our first encounter at the Sacramento City Plaza a few years ago was a real "take off" for your career. Must be because I've bought 3 of your cd's. Am even listening to Frosty as I type this! Might get over to see you at the fair... anyway, continued success!" - Skip Daum, Sacramento, CA 9/1/05
  
  "I really enjoyed your music at the Fillmore Jazz Fest in San Francisco. I just finished listening to the two cd's you sent me and you sound fantastic thank you again for sending them to me. I will be ordering the rest of your cd's again real soon" - Mike Summers, Hayward, CA 8/24/05
  
  "Listening to the disc we recorded (at Solano County Fair)......WOW, love all of it." - Jeff Ross, Fresno, CA 8/21/05
  
  " I don't know a Bb from a flat tire but I do have a pretty good ear for music. I purchased your CD 'Steppin Out' and after hearing this CD bought three more (so I must have a VERY good ear for music)! My son is also interested in the Chapman Stick.
  " - Robert Pederson 8/19/05
  
  "We just visited your website in hopes that you may be scheduled to appear this year at the State Fair again. Mary and I so enjoyed you and your music last year we a praying to see you this year. If you have plans to appear this year I wourld really appreciate an e-mail from you as to the date and time. Also wish to let you know we enjoy your CDs very much. Thanks." - Bob and Mary Holst 8/15/05
  
  "Hi Michael, I have worked with lots of players and performers over the years, back when i played and more recently as a restaurant or bar manager. You, Sir, are a pro. I think maybe you had lots of gigs still ringing in your ears this last Saturday. Maybe that; who knows? I love your music and i love you being in the room and I love working with you. I gave a little feedback on how the volume seemed out in the room and you adjusted. Just like a pro. What a pleasure! Thank you." - John Hankins, Sacramento Brewing Co. 7/24/05
  
  "I first heard this music at the Mandarin festival in Auburn and fell in love with the sound. I had never heard of this
  instrument before and still am in a state of wonder." - Russ Weikle, Applegate, CA 11/23/05
  
  "Michael Kollwitz is a true virtuoso of the Chapman Stick." - Damien Masterson, San Francisco, CA 2/12/06
  
  "Just wanted to let you know what a wonderful addition you were to our show in Auburn today." - Carole Berry (promoter) Redding, CA 2/19/06
  
  "I accidentally came across your website and listened to your music. BEAUTIFUL!!! So restful and relaxing to listen to. Thank you. I have enclosed my check for..." - Sam Parker, Hillsdale, MI 2/23/06
  
  "I cannot even begin to tell you of how many times or the hours I've spent listening to the CD I got from you, when you were in old downtown Sac. It gives me great pleasure and such a great CD to listen to. I am looking forward to seeing you again and your upcoming 15 minutes of fame on Channel 10. Far out dude!! It's just awesome. I am also looking forward to saying: "I knew him when..." Well just a brief note. I am off to the Celtic Fair in Calaveras County for the weekend. You should try to get in for next year. I think you'd be a perfect blend with Celtic music, or maybe it's because I am biased towards the music you play." - James Schoknecht 3/10/06
  
  "Your work speaks for itself and stands on it's own. Me, I have enough to do with one string at a time and one fret at a time. How you play that thing is beyond me. PLUS you make it appear effortless." - David Arrich 3/15/06
  
  "I've been on the website--it's wonderful! My kids are fascinated! We're enjoying the CD's we purchased and will look forward to sharing them with many friends and family over the year as we give them as gifts." - Cheryl Lewis, Vacaville, CA 3/15/06
  
  "I have many friends (music people) that just have to check you out. Man you one cool dude. Thanx again for the great music, your CD can always be found near the player." Steve Hastings, Sebastopol, CA 3/13/06
  
  "It is so nice to hear great music in this age. I so enjoy it. Good luck to you and I can't wait to get your new C.D. "Waterfallin'"." Brenda Morris, Shaver Lake, CA 3/14/06
  
  "FYI - my wife listens to your CD every morning getting ready for work and absolutely loves both of them." -
  Patrick 3/16/06
  
  "Michael... You are awesome!" - Lilly Cortez, Producer of 'Sacramento & Co.', NEWS10/ABC 3/18/06
  
  "Congratulations (on your TV appearance)! I was in South Africa and just returned so I missed it, but
  hope to see you at the Asparagus Festival again this year. I am looking forward to purchasing the new CD you did last year as I don't have it yet and love listening to all of the rest of them." - Kathy Harden 3/21/06
  
  

• Review of "Suntan Lady" [+ Show ]
  

  Hi Mike: Enjoying "Suntan Lady" and am tanning as we speak. Nicely recorded Stick strings and espe...Hi Mike: Enjoying "Suntan Lady" and am tanning as we speak. Nicely recorded Stick strings and especially the crystalline highs of the new "Stick Guitar" model. Also enjoyed the cultural Island moods, and of course Sean's clear-cut fantasy scape.
  
  Very nice - Stick with surfboards, a steel guitar and the alluring ethnic looking Lady. Another piece of the "American pie" (on a Stick?). I enjoyed your more intimate solo songs too, nice contrast from the more established Hawaiian themes.
  
  Many thanks for the music and inclusion of your new SG12, also for the excellent credits.
  
  Emmett

• Review of "Frosty The Stickman" [+ Show ]
  

  Although I have listened to well over 1,000 holiday CDs over the years, I can honestly report that "...Although I have listened to well over 1,000 holiday CDs over the years, I can honestly report that "Frosty The Stickman" is absolutely unique. This is my first (and only!) instrumental Christmas album played on The Chapman Stick...,[which] is a fascinating stringed instrument that is played with both hands by tapping the frets--almost like a blended guitar/piano. When played, it lacks the traditional strumming associated with guitars; instead, the melody floats on a "keyboard" with a bass line beneath. The overall effect is unusual--and pleasing--and this recording gives the impression of several instruments playing together. Artist Michael Kollwitz swears, however, that "[a]ll songs [were] recorded live in-studio to digital format without use of edits or overdubs"--amazing! "Frosty The Stickman" is a cheery group of 15 holiday gems, all familiar and fun. The tone ranges from the sweetly upbeat ("Frosty The Snowman") to the gently contemplative ("We Three Kings of Orient Are"), and the arrangements are relatively straight-ahead, with a few creative curves adding excitement to the ride. The best tracks include "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," with its jazzy interludes, and a slyly spirited "Sleigh Ride." This music would provide the perfect backdrop for your holiday social gathering or gift-wrapping fest. If you're looking for a broad range of lovely holiday instrumentals, get on the stick--The Chapman Stick--with Michael Kollwitz.
  
  

• Review of "Moments" [+ Show ]
  

  Guitarist Emmett Chapman invented The Stick in 1969. The instrument looks like the oversized neck of...Guitarist Emmett Chapman invented The Stick in 1969. The instrument looks like the oversized neck of a 12-string guitar with no body. Looking like a stick, the strings run the entire length of the instrument which the player holds vertically and plays tap-style with both hands. As described by Chapman, "The Stick method enables live execution of complete musical concepts, from the bass on through chords and melody, to the effects. ambients and sweeteners, greatly enlarging the musical scope". The Stick is played with both hands; simultaneously playing both bass and melody parts independently- by tapping and holding strings to frets (rather than pluck or strum).
  
  Michael Kollwitz is one of the 'first generation' of Chapman Stick players. The Sacramento, California native began his studies with the inventor in 1976, and is currently heralded as one of the formost players in the country.
  
  "Sweet, soothing sounds" is how Kollwitz describes his work. By his styling, you can tell he is enjoying what he is doing. Lighthearted, whimsical in his approach, on this release "Moments", he mixes originals with recognizable material ranging from classical ('Bolero') to Broadway ('My Funny Valentine'); from jazz (John Klemmer's 'Just Friends') and Miles Davis' 'Freddie The Freeloader') to rock (Santana's 'Europa', The Beatle's 'Maxwell's Silver Hammer' and Hendriz's 'Little Wing')
  
  "Little Wing" is a passively playful interpretation, the sustain of The Stick somewhere between a guitar and classical harp sound.
  
  While pleasant, the simple solo work of Kollwitz on The Stick is designed for one who wants some casual, easy listening background-style music.
  
  His music was selected for inclusion in the very first CD compilation of the world's best Stick players on "Tappistry Vol. 1" {Toe Tappin' Records} with his discography listing numerous titles including "Carnival", "Steppin' Out", "Memories", along with his Christmas favorite "Frosty The Stickman" (2004).
  

• Review of "Frosty The Stickman" [+ Show ]
  

  Here’s what happened when Michael Kollwitz’s new CD "Frosty The Stickman" arrived at my door. I’m no...Here’s what happened when Michael Kollwitz’s new CD "Frosty The Stickman" arrived at my door. I’m not kidding, this is true. I went to the mailbox, picked up his disc, the weather outside was gloomy and grey. I did a couple of chores around the house, put his CD on, looked outside not an hour later and all was wintry white. I’m not saying that Michael’s CD brought the snow and the first hit of winter cheer but I’m not ruling out the possibility either. Michael has assembled all the usual Christmas suspects on this 15 tune offering: Frosty, Rudolph, the Little Drummer Boy, the Three Kings of Orient, as well as classics of the holiday repertoire: Silent Night, Away in a Manger, Auld Lang Syne and others. All played loud and proud – solo Grand Stick with MIDI sweeteners on the melody side. The arrangements stay pretty true to the versions sung around open fires and decorated trees everywhere, making this disc great for holiday gatherings and a good introduction to The Stick for those who want to know what the instrument sounds like. Yes, you can play any kind of music on Stick. I like "Frosty The Stickman" best when Michael stretches out a bit though and adds some smooth blue notes and chord substations, like on “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “Auld Lang Syne.” All in all, Michael’s Frosty works great from beginning to end. The holiday cheer I’m certain he was hoping to get across is there, clear and bright. I ’m looking forward to putting this one on the stereo while I’m opening all those big boxes with my name on them on Christmas morning. (By the way, if you’re still searching, I’m a large and I like blue.)

• Review of "Waterfallin'" [+ Show ]
  

  It used to be, that if you wanted to show someone what a Stick sounded like, all you had to do was p...It used to be, that if you wanted to show someone what a Stick sounded like, all you had to do was put on one of Michael Kollwitz’s CDs. There is no finer example than Michael’s of the left hand-chord, right hand-melody Stick technique. Now, you can play his latest release, Waterfallin’, for anyone who asks what the new Alto Stick sounds like. Waterfallin’ is the first full-length recording to feature the Alto Stick, and it’s fitting that Michael is the first artist to bring the Alto to the fore. You see, he has been there, playing Stick, since just about the beginning. He started in 1976, and was one of Emmett’s first students. His updated Website www.michaelkollwitz.com is like a trip through Stick history. Check out some of the photos in particular.
  
  Those of you familiar with Michael’s previous releases will recognize left hand arpeggios and the clear, clean Grand Stick with MIDI sweeteners on the melody side. That’s present on Waterfallin’ too, but on top of that, Michael has added the crisp, bright Alto. The Alto cuts through the mix and adds any upper register shimmer to eleven of the disc’s fifteen tracks.
  
  The Grand with MIDI and the Alto Stick are perfect compliments to each other. On the first tune, appropriately titled ˜Waterfallin’ a cascade of notes fall from the Alto over a bed of Grand chords, arpeggios and subtle counter melodies. My personal favourite is Michael’s version of Sting’s “Fragile”. Here the range of the Alto seems to match Sting’s tenor seamlessly. Michael also covers, “California Dreamin”, “Nights in White Satin” “C’est La Vie” “Summertime” and “Baby Elephant Walk”. The other nine tunes are originals. All stay true to his sonic formula: lay down a solid foundation, then sweeten it with a strong melody on top.
  
  It’s hard to find any faults with this disc. I’ve written before, how Michael’s music is a wonderful to just put on, sit back and relax too. My favourite thing to do with his music is to put on headphones and use it as live soundtrack while I go walking. He always manages to stimulate and sooth simultaneously.
  
  Waterfallin’ is an important addition to any Stick library. Not only because it marks the introduction of the Alto Stick, but also because it makes a fine musical statement that rises above both the Grand and Alto instruments.
  
  

• Review of "Live In Concert" DVD [+ Show ]
  

  Hi Mike: Thanks for your latest DVD. So great to see a friend and student from long ago now playin...Hi Mike: Thanks for your latest DVD. So great to see a friend and student from long ago now playing his heart out live on stage with complete self expression - most gratifying!
  
  You started warm and your fingers got hotter with each song, obviously warming up the audience too.
  
  I think I liked Orpheus best, because of the authentic Latin bass rhythm and line.
  
  Your endings are all great, by the way. Also, you are the "person" on stage who responds with the audience to your own music and presence. (Sometimes you're also the technician who "gets down to business" but then you bounce right back into that personal limelight.) DVD's a great medium, huh?
  
  I really didn't "get" the five shirt changes, each one a new experience in the bizarre. Is it entertainment or do you just sweat a lot? I did notice that each time you reappeared, you looked fresh and your hair was neatly combed. What do you do back there? Maybe it's just Mountain Dew.
  
  Many thanks for the good credits on DVD and cover text. We appreciate the Website plug and the prominent description of The Stick and its history. Thanks for the music too, and the heart, and the discipline.
  
  Nice going Mike!
  
  Emmett

• COVER STORY: The Stick- The Best Musical Instrument You've Never Heard Of [+ Show ]
  

  Not able to pull in the text on this Sept. 2007 cover story. Click on URL below and read the whole a...Not able to pull in the text on this Sept. 2007 cover story. Click on URL below and read the whole article PLUS enjoy all the photos. Mahalo.
  
  http://www.mauitime.com/Scribd.Item-2932.113117_Maui_Time_September_27_2007.html

• Review of CD "The Chapman Stick meets The Beatles" [+ Show ]
  

  Artist: Michael Kollwitz Album: The Chapman Stick Meets The Beatles Review by Vinny “Bond” Marini ...Artist: Michael Kollwitz
  Album: The Chapman Stick Meets The Beatles
  Review by Vinny “Bond” Marini
  
  
  What is this Chapman Stick instrument that plays ALL of the music on this album?
  
  It is a newer development in the string instrument world, invented in the 1970’s. Tapped with both hands (more like a piano than a guitar), it has components of bass, guitar, keyboards and drums. It is capable of simultaneous multi-part arrangements. Pictures of this instrument can be found at http://www.chapmanstick.com.
  
  Michael Kollwitz was one of the inventor’s (Emmett Chapman) students and he has taken his skills with this instrument and produced an album of songs that will be recognizable to most. The album contains 16 of the Beatles biggest hits, played unlike you have ever heard.
  
  Opening with “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” you are immediately struck by the richness of this instrument. The lead lines sound, on this cut, very much like a harpsichord. As described above, there is more than one sound generated by the stick and as the lead line is played, there is also a rhythm line/second lead and the bass lines being played.
  
  “In My Life,” seems to be made for the stick. The ‘guitar’ part is almost spot on to the original as he layers in the rhythm and the vocal part to create a truly wonderful cover of this great song.
  
  On some songs, it sounds as if Kollwitz has 4 or 5 hands. On “A Hard Day’s Night” there is so much going on; a lead guitar line, a rhythm guitar line, bass, drums and the vocal areas. It is an explosion of sounds all coming together to give you a real pleasant sound.
  
  “Can’t Buy Me Love” will also please any Beatles fan. Kollwitz covers the vocals and harmonies at the same time as he plays a deep bass run. The tempo is slightly slower than the original, but the song still is fun. He even adds a little ‘country’ flavor to the song, giving it an even different sound. Then he breaks into a lead solo and makes notes that sound like a keyboard.
  
  Most of the songs clock in like the originals at less than 3 minutes with two exceptions, “Hey Jude” and While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”
  
  The version of “Hey Jude” is nice, but it does not contain the same richness as other songs on the album. On the other hand, the George Harrison song, “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is a standout on this album. Of course it helps that the original is one of the greatest songs ever written.
  
  Kollwitz does an extremely good job of capturing the sounds Harrison conceived. The song swells and retreats as needed and the backing rhythm sounds are spot on. At one point he makes the stick sound exactly like an electric guitar during a solo. If this stick can do that…WOW.
  
  Kollwitz’s interpretation of all the songs on the album is true to the original sounds desired by the Beatles, but with a new take that is unlike anything you have ever heard.
  
  Is the Chapman Stick the next huge instrument? Will bands be adding it to their arrangements? Probably not, but would the Beatles (and Harrison specifically) added this instrument? The feeling here is they/he would. Harrison immersed himself in the sitar and the stick would have intrigued him and caused him to learn it.
  
  If you are a Beatles fan, you will want to check this album out, knowing beforehand that these are different from the originals, but they are certainly worthy of a listen.
  
  
  Review by Vinny “Bond” Marini
  Rating: 4 stars (out of 5)
  

Setlist

Michael has performed at almost every type of event- concerts, festivals, fairs, galleries, shopping centers, museums, airports, civic events and others. He's also had considerable experience performing at hotels, resorts and fine dining establishments. As a result, he's developed a large repetoire of variety music for virtually any type event; whether it be private, corporate or family oriented. His repetoire includes jazz, blues, rock, traditional, contemporary, Hawaiian, Christmas, wedding and novelty songs. With 15 independent releases currently available, he plays both covers and originals. Below is a list of cover songs he's used in set lists recently:

2011-2012 COVER SONG LIST
for Michael K & The Chapman Stick

-A
Across The Universe- The Beatles
A Foggy Day- George Gershwin
A Hard Day's Night- The Beatles
Aloha Oe'- Queen Liliuokalani
All My Lovin'- The Beatles
And I Love Her- The Beatles
Autumn Leaves- Johnny Mercer
-B
Baby Elephant Walk- Henry Mancini
Black Magic Woman- Santana
Black Orpheus- Louis Bonfi
Blue Bossa- Kenny Borham
Blue Hawaii- (from the movie 'Blue Hawaii')
-C
California Dreamin'- The Mamas and Papas
Canon in D- Pachebel
Can't Buy Me Love- The Beatles
Can't Help Falling In Love- (from the movie 'Blue Hawaii')
C’est La Vie- Greg Lake
-D
Daydream- John Sebastian
-E
Eight Days A Week- The Beatles
Eleanor Rigby- The Beatles
El Farol- Santana
Europa- Santana
-F
Flor D' Luna- Santana
Fragile- Sting
Freddy The Freeloader- Miles Davis
From Me To You- The Beatles
-G
Greensleeves- Traditional
-H
Haole Hula- R. Alex Anderson
Happy Trails- Dale Evans
Hawaii Five-O- (TV Theme Song from 'Hawaii 5-0')
Hawaiian War Chant- Prince Leleiohoku
Help!- The Beatles
Hey Jude- The Beatles
Honolulu City Lights- Cecilio & Kapono
Hotel California- The Eagles
House of The Rising Sun- Eric Burdon
-I
If- Bread
In My Life- The Beatles
Island Style- John Cruz
I Want To Hold Your Hand- The Beatles
-J
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring- Johann S. Bach
Just Friends- John Klemmer
Just Take A Pebble- Emerson, Lake & Palmer
-K
Kawaipunahele- Kealii Reichel
Kawika- Traditional
-L
Lady Wants To Know- Michael Franks
Lahainaluna- Kui Lee
Lights- Journey
Little Grass Shack- Johnny Noble
Little Wing- Jimi Hendrix
-M
Maxwell’s Silver Hammer- The Beatles
Misty- Johnny Mathis
Moonlight Swim- (from movie 'Blue Hawaii')
Moon River- Mancini/Mercer
-N
Nights in White Satin- The Moody Blues
Norwegian Wood- The Beatles
Nowhere Man- The Beatles
Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da- The Beatles
Out Of Nowhere- Green/Heyman
Oye Como Va- Santana
-P
Penny Lane- The Beatles
Puamana- Irmgard Aluli
-Q
-R
Rhiannon- Fleetwood Mac
-S
Samba Pa Ti- Santana
Scarborough Fair- Traditional
Sleepwalk- Santos & Johnny
Somewhere Over The Rainbow- Arlen/Harburg
Song For Anna- Herb Ohta
Song For My Father- Horace Silver
Spanish Eyes- Bert Kaempfert
Stairway To Heaven- Led Zeppelin
Stormy Monday- T Bone Walker
Suicide Is Painless- (TV Theme Song from M*A*S*H*)
Summertime- George Gershwin
Sunny- Bobby Darin
-T
Taxman- The Beatles
The Wind Cries Mary- Jimi Hendrix
This Masquerade- Leon Russell
Ticket To Ride- The Beatles
-U
-V
-W
Waimanalo Blues- Martin/Wold
Wedding March- Traditional
When I'm Sixty Four- The Beatles
While My Guitar Gently Weeps- The Beatles
White Sandy Beach- Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
With A Little Help From My Friends- The Beatles
-X
-Y
Yesterday- The Beatles
-Z
(List does not include holiday music or originals)

Basic Requirements

Calendar