Michelle Mangione

Michelle Mangione’s lifelong passion for music was sparked at home, where her father filled the house with music. A pianist and songwriter, he welcomed fellow musicians to stop by and play, even keeping drum kits set up for impromptu jam sessions with friends—including two priests from the nearby church. When Michelle first sat behind a drum set at age 12, she was immediately captivated and soon began taking lessons. She also learned guitar alongside her sister, and together they performed in retirement homes, where Michelle witnessed firsthand music’s remarkable ability to connect with and uplift others. A pivotal influence was her drum teacher, the legendary Kay Carlson, who had entertained World War II troops in an all-female USO orchestra. Mrs. Carlson’s enduring advice—never turn down a job, and once you have it, always arrive prepared and give your very best—became a guiding principle throughout Michelle’s career. After high school, she performed regularly with a rock band while continuing to pursue her ardent love of jazz. Among her most cherished collaborations were performances with Buddy Collette and later Robben Ford. Beyond the stage, Michelle taught drums for more than 20 years, built her own recording studio to produce commercials and other projects, and established herself as a songwriter. One notable collaboration was with Grace Slick on “Edge of Madness,” a song written to benefit those affected by Gulf Coast flooding. Reflecting on her journey, Michelle expressed profound gratitude for every performance, every collaboration, and every opportunity to share the joy and transformative power of music with others. It was, she believed, the greatest reward of all.