Michael Kozakis is an active percussionist and educator in the Chicago area. As a performer, Michael has played with many different groups including the Chicago Symphony, Lyric Opera Orchestra, Grant Park Symphony, St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Chicago Chamber Musicians, Ars Viva, Chicago Philharmonic, Joffrey Ballet, Illinois Philharmonic, Elgin Symphony, Chicago Sinfonietta, and MusicNOW. He has played in the studio for many national TV/radio commercials and accompanied well-known personalities such as Sting, Roger Daltrey of The Who, Andrea Bocelli, Il Divo, Johnny Mathis, Dave Brubeck, and many others. Michael held two one-year positions as a full-time percussionist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra from 2005-2007.

As an educator, Michael is enjoys teaching all levels of students from Junior High through College. Michael serves on the percussion faculty of DePaul University and Carthage College and is a private teacher/drumline coach at two NW suburban high schools near his home. Michael is often giving master classes and adjudicating at local high schools, youth orchestras, and Days of Percussion.

As a marimba concerto soloist, Michael has soloed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Rockford Symphony.

Michael received his bachelor's degree from the Eastman School of Music with a double major in Music Education and Performance and a master's degree in Performance from DePaul University. ?