Michael Schwagerus, double bass, joined the North State Symphony in 2001 and continues serving there as principal bassist. During this time, he has also performed with the Sacramento Philharmonic, Modesto Symphony, Sacramento Choral Society, Sacramento Chamber Music Society, and was also principal bassist for the Townsend Opera.

As full-time music teacher of St. James School in Davis, Michael enjoys conducting Concert Band and Choir while teaching K–8 music to the school’s 300 students.

Michael maintains a private lesson studio of 45 students and teaches a variety of instruments including piano, guitar, and woodwinds. His bass students have been accepted to the Manhattan School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and Brubeck Institute Jazz Colony.