Michael Orland, the Master Behind the Keyboard

What started as one day of work turned into 16 seasons as the pianist, arranger, vocal coach, and Associate Musical Director for American Idol. Not only has Michael Orland had a hand in the success of the leading names from Idol, he has also worked with a Rolodex of names that includes Kristen Bell, Sabrina Carpenter, Lynda Carter, Kristin Chenoweth, Ariana Grande, Marilu Henner, Jennifer Holliday, Roslyn Kind, Barry Manilow, Maureen McGovern, Idina Menzel, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, Ann Miller, and the legendary Kaye Ballard, just to name a few. Even though he has been front and center on stage and on television, he remains humble, always in awe of the power of music. This month, he released his debut piano solo album, In My Life, a celebration of piano covers of songs that have played a key role in his life.

In this episode, we talk about his early love for music, dropping out of school and heading to New York City, his early breaks in the business, getting onto American Idol, getting starstruck and working with the best, his open mic nights, his debut album In My Life, and so much more…check it out.

Hosted by Alexander Rodriguez @AlexanderisOnAir

You can check out our in-depth chat with him at GEDMag.com