Dearest Michael It is with deep sadness to learn of your passing. I joined the academy in 2015 only a year after my own father passed away. I always fancied having a go at singing and was looking for something to occupy my mind, well I certainly came to the right place. I remember when you first called me up on the phone in 2015. I was expecting a serious speaking opera teacher. I was initially worried, but instead I heard a broad and kind Yorkshire accent. I thought this man has called the wrong number? You were both, a really grand opera teacher and a very kind man. Your warmth, encouragement and sense of humour touched my soul and helped me through some very challenging times. You reminded me what laughter was and how to laugh again. I say to people that I always left the lesson feeling on top of the world. Your tuition, was more than a singing lesson, to me it was singing plus mental healing. I will continue to strive to become the Verdi Baritone that you always had planned for me. ‘Get it? Got it? Good!’ Gareth Rees