Upcoming Projects
Jeff Awards
March 24, 2025
Harris Theater, Chicago
Taylor's Inferno
Music Supervisor
feat. music of The Doors
Sandlot: The Musical
Composer
Testimonials
Kevin Wallace,
Tony & Olivier-nominated producer
Really Useful Group,
Kevin Wallace Limited
In his capacity as Musical Director on THE LORD OF THE RINGS – A Musical Tale, Michael McBride ensured the nuances of performance by the company of actor-musicians consistently served the score, storytelling, and the production. Michael is a collaborator and developed the essential professional relationships with the rest of the creative team, the acting company, and the production staff to maintain the highest consistent quality of performance. It is a pleasure to unreservedly recommend and endorse Michael, and I look forward to the next opportunity for us to work together.
Lauren Zakrin, actor/singer
Broadway: Once Upon a One More Time, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Great Comet, Rock of Ages
Tours: The Lord of the Rings, Wicked, Grease, Legally Blonde
Dr. McBride is the perfect combination of comfort and ease, mixed with no nonsense productivity. He manages to make the room fun, while taking the work seriously and getting the job done. As a singer who struggles with sight reading, Michael is patient and gentle and provides tips and tools to help lead you to confidence. He makes you feel safe enough to allow your best work to flow freely. And he never gives up on making sure the final product is the best it can be.
Stephen Schellhardt,
Jeff Award-winning director/choreographer/actor
National tour: Alter Boyz.
Paramount Theatre, Marriott Theatre, Drury Lane Theatre, Porchlight Music Theatre,
Lyric Opera, Second City Chicago,
Barter Theater
Michael McBride is a master of his craft. He is an exceptional creative collaborator and music director, and it's always a pleasure to work with him. With his vast musical wisdom and collegial approach, he ensures that each talent brings their authentic self and voice to every stage of the process. He employs a storytelling perspective, knowing that intention informs sound. That, in turn, makes every production and piece of music he helps shape soar off the page. He is one of the hardest working artists I know, giving 100% to every creative endeavor. Work with him any chance you get! He is simply the best at what he does.
Greg Strauss,
trumpet
LOCAL 10-208 A.F.M.
I’ve had the pleasure to work with Dr. McBride on numerous musicals and recording projects, he is an exceptional director and musician! Michael brings a joyful and exciting energy to his productions, his artistic creativity is presented clearly, and his care and respect for his colleagues is second to none!
Paul Stancato,
Producer/Director/choreographer
Broadway: The Wedding Singer
Tour: The Lion King, Jekyll & Hyde
I have had the absolute pleasure of working alongside Michael McBride, and I can say without hesitation that he is one of the most gifted and dedicated artists I know. As a Music Director, Arranger, and Composer, Michael brings not only an impeccable level of musicianship but also a deep passion for storytelling through music. His ability to craft arrangements that elevate a production, while always remaining collaborative and open to new ideas, makes him an invaluable creative partner.
Beyond his immense talent, Michael is simply a joy to work with—his generosity, professionalism, and infectious enthusiasm inspire everyone around him. He has a rare ability to bring out the best in performers and colleagues alike, fostering an environment where creativity thrives. Any project is made better by his presence, and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking a top-tier music director and collaborator.
Music Director Reel
Coaching Services
1 hr
100 US dollars
1 hr
100 US dollars
1 hr
100 US dollars
About Michael McBride
DR. MICHAEL MCBRIDE (he/him, Music Director) is a Chicago-based Jeff Award-winning music director, internationally-performed composer, performer, and educator. INTERNATIONAL: The Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale (GWB Productions, New Zealand). NEW YORK: The Scarlet Pimpernel (John W. Engeman Theater). CHICAGO: The Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale, Sinister (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), Revolution(s) (Goodman Theatre), Grease (Drury Lane Theatre), Big Fish (Boho Theater, Jeff Award — Best Music Direction), The Choir of Man (Apollo Theater Chicago), Rent (Porchlight Music Theatre), Passing Strange (Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre), Billy Elliot, Brigadoon, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Carousel (Music Theater Works). REGIONAL: We Will Rock You, Legally Blonde, Escape to Margaritaville, Ain’t Misbehavin’, The Robber Bridegroom, Jesus Christ Superstar, Pippin, Man of La Mancha, Mamma Mia!, Into the Woods, The Little Mermaid (Timber Lake Playhouse). ACADEMIC: Ride the Cyclone (DePaul University), Yeast Nation (North Park University), The Old Man and the Old Moon, Fun Home, Violet, Cabaret, Tintypes, She Loves Me, Spring Awakening, Hot Mikado, Urinetown (Loyola University Chicago). COMPOSER: The Boys and The Nuns. FACULTY: Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago, North Park University. EDUCATION: DM Composition, Northwestern University. IG: @TheRealMcBride