Born in Melbourne, Michelle began her cello studies at the age of 7, where she enjoyed a rich school musical life before beginning a Bachelor of Music Degree at the University of Melbourne. Upon graduating as the highest final year cello graduate (Gwen Prokter Cello Award recipient) Michelle was then one of only four music students to receive an Australian Postgraduate Award, which enabled further study in a Masters of Music Performance under the tuition of Christian Wojtowicz.

During her study Michelle was principal cellist and soloist with both the University Orchestra and Chamber Orchestras, as well as principal cellist of the Australian Classical Players - performing as continuo soloist in the orchestra’s Australian premiere of Handel’s oratorio ‘La Rezzurectione’ in 2001. Her participation in the Australian Youth Orchestra included performances in the 2000 Olympic Arts Festival in Sydney and also in its Sydney Festival and Melbourne Myer Music Bowl Concerts with the Melbourne Symphony. Michelle has also worked with the Academy of Melbourne Orchestra and Orchestra Victoria.

Michelle’s solo and chamber music performances have been noted for their “...admirable display of control and care for the music...” (The Age, Clive O’Connell), and her experience as a chamber musician has taken her throughout Australia and internationally with both piano trios and string quartets. Both prior to and concurrently with her involvement with Tinalley she has toured Asia and Australia with the Piano Trio of Melbourne, performed duo recitals for the Musical Society of Victoria, and participated in the Melbourne Autumn Music Festival in collaborations with some of Australia’s most esteemed chamber musicians.

More recently, Michelle has featured with violinist Kristian Winther on the recent Melba Records release ‘Tzigane’ in a performance of Ravel’s Sonata for Violin and Cello, which has been described as “...an original approach, sporting fiery interpretations of great skill” (Audiophile, John Sunier).

Michelle currently performs with the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra as a core player, and teaches privately in Melbourne.