About Michael
Michael Averill is an adventurous Canadian troubadour who literally strolled 4000 miles of Canada over 8 years on a tour called “I’d Rather Walk.” It was a journey inspired by his late singer/songwriter father, Garry Averill, and an opportunity to understand what Canada is all about as a country and community.
Whether playing house concerts, theatres, festivals, trains, boats, backyards, walking paths, special event spaces, schools, yoga classes, or conferences, Michael always finds unique and warm ways to help his audiences connect with each other through his riveting storytelling, and quirky approach to his songs.
Onstage, Michael’s performance versatility ranges from southern lap steel slide blues, to intricate finger-style folk, to driving shanties about mismatched socks. He combines buttery guitar licks and philosophical wordplay into the perfect blend of silly and sensitive, and leads listeners through the ups and downs of life with a smile and curious heart.
Since 2011, Michael has been fostering the growth of artists and community on a local, regional, and global scale, and sees no signs of slowing down. Now based in Kelowna, BC, he’s currently working on a book of short stories which will integrate music about his experiences walking and singing through Canada. Stay tuned for updates about its release and supporting performances!
“Michael has a pied piper quality to him. He is a community builder, scene creator, and movement organizer. He is a teacher and inspirational leader that has the ability to gather the arts community around him, and take them in directions they might not achieve on their own.” ”