Michael Whalen is a two-time Emmy® Award-winning American composer, producer, and recording artist, widely recognized for his work in contemporary instrumental and television music. Born on December 2, 1965, in New York City, Whalen has left a lasting impact on the music industry with his emotive melodies and versatility as a composer, pianist, music supervisor, sound designer, synthesist, arranger, and producer.

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Whalen's musical journey began at the age of 5 when he took up percussion. His passion led him to study under Tommy Wardlow, the chief percussionist at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. He later attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, focusing on composition and production/engineering. In 1987, Whalen moved to New York City, launching a career that has spanned more than three decades and covered various styles, including contemporary classical, electronic, ambient, singer/songwriter and new age music.

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Over his career, Whalen has composed music for a broad range of projects, including dozens of films, hundreds of television shows, and thousands of commercials. Known for his ability to craft evocative soundscapes, Whalen’s work has made him a sought-after composer in the entertainment industry. His music often blends live classical instrumentation with cutting-edge technology, creating a captivating auditory experience. Many people are also familiar with his work as a sound designer.

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As a solo artist, Whalen has released 46 albums, showcasing his diverse musical talents. Some of his notable albums include My Secret Heart (2005/UMG), Cupid Blindfolded (2019), Nightscenes (1996), Sacred Spaces (2020), Walk in Beauty, Like the Night (2023), and his latest, Watercolor Sky (2024).

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In addition to his extensive work in film and television, Whalen has collaborated with renowned artists such as Stephen Sondheim, Fiona Apple, Brian Wilson, Daniel Lanois, Carole King, and David Foster, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and accomplished musician. Beyond his two Emmy® wins, he has garnered eight Emmy nominations, 10 Clio awards, a BMI award, an Intercontinental Music Award and four Global Music Awards.

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Whalen currently resides on an island in the middle of Jamaica Bay, New York City, with his wife, two grown children, and their dog.