Michael Galea

Michael ike Galea is a trumpet player and esteemed music educator, proudly hailing from San Mateo, CA. Currently, he serves as the Director of Bands at Hillsdale High School, where he guides and mentors a diverse group of over 170 musicians and music creators.

In 2016, Mike graduated, with distinction, from the University of the Pacific, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies. During his time at Pacific, he was selected to play lead trumpet for the renowned Pacific Jazz Ensemble, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. Under the tutelage of esteemed mentors like Tom Peron, Patrick Langham, Leonard Ott, Jamie Dubberly, and Gerald Pineda, Mike honed his skills and developed a deep appreciation for jazz trumpet.

As a versatile performer, Mike freelances throughout the Bay Area, captivating audiences with his mastery of various musical styles, including jazz, classical, and beyond. He has shared the stage with esteemed artists such as Steve Allee, Paul Young, Wayne Bergeron, Ed Simon, Jamie Baum, Peter Erskine, Stefon Harris, Duane Lawrence, Greg Yasinitsky, and many more.

In addition to his remarkable career as a performer, Mike is deeply committed to music education. He leads the acclaimed Jazz Ensemble at Hillsdale High School, which has garnered widespread recognition for its exceptional talent, musicianship, and energy. Under Mike’s guidance, the Jazz Ensemble has achieved numerous accolades, including the prestigious Unanimous Superior rating from CMEA South 2024, 2nd Place at the Campana Jazz Festival “A” Division, 3rd Place in the High School Combo division two years in a row at the Campana Jazz Festival, and 2nd Place at the Sonoma Redwood Empires Jazz Festival. Mike’s passion for music education extends far beyond the classroom. He is dedicated to inspiring his students to reach their full potential as musicians and fostering a lifelong love for music. Through his unwavering commitment and dedication, Mike continues to profoundly impact the lives of his students and the broader music community. In addition to his work with Hillsdale High School, Mike has lent his musical talents to over thirty pit orchestras across the Peninsula, showcasing his versatility and skill in various musical settings.