Michael Fries is an American tenor, educator, and recording artist originally from Long Island, New York. A classically trained vocalist with more than fifteen years of formal vocal study, Michael has performed throughout the United States and internationally, including appearances at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival. His diverse musical background spans opera, sacred music, musical theater, and contemporary repertoire.
Michael made his operatic debut as Don Basilio in Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro with Tri-Cities Opera in Binghamton, New York. During his collegiate studies, he was awarded first place in Binghamton University’s Concerto Competition for his performance of “Il Mio Tesoro” from Mozart’s Don Giovanni.
In 2007, Michael was crowned Long Island Idol, earning first place among hundreds of contestants in 106.1 WBLI’s regional singing competition and receiving the competition’s $5,000 grand prize. These accomplishments helped establish him as a versatile performer equally at home on the concert stage, in the opera house, and at community events.
In May of 2007, Michael was voted as winner of 2007’s 106.1 WBLI Island Idol competition out of all of Long Island. For more information, please visit my video “Island Idol Saga” that explains the entire story there is to tell.
Now residing in the Des Moines, Iowa, area, Michael serves as an educator while maintaining an active career as a professional cantor. He regularly leads music for liturgies, weddings, funerals, and special celebrations at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in West Des Moines and St. Pius X Catholic Church in Urbandale. Through his ministry, Michael seeks to enrich the worship experience by offering music that inspires prayer, reverence, and hope.
Michael is also a frequent performer of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events and civic celebrations throughout Iowa. One of his long-term personal goals is to sing the National Anthem for every Major League Baseball team. To date, he has performed for 15 MLB organizations, and he continues to pursue opportunities to complete that journey.
Beyond music, Michael has a lifelong passion for philosophy, theology, audio production, and technology. He enjoys producing professional vocal recordings, exploring the art and science of music production, collecting and restoring classic video game systems, and spending quality time with his wife and daughter. Whether performing on stage, teaching in the classroom, or creating music in the studio, Michael strives to use his gifts to serve others and to glorify God.
Thank you for visiting MichaelFries.com. Your support and encouragement are greatly appreciated. May God bless you, and I hope you enjoy exploring my music and ministry.