Michael J. Kilwein

A Pittsburgh native, Michael J. Kilwein began playing the piano under the instruction of Mr. Paul Walter when he was five years old. When he was a senior at Upper St. Clair High School, he realized that he had a special talent, and he decided to pursue music as a profession. He is now a music major at the University of Dayton, and he carries a second major in Public Relations. At UD, Michael studies piano with Dr. Eric Street.

As a result of his diligence and determination, Michael has performed extensively in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and he will be performing in May in Florence, Italy. Some of Michael's favorite recital selections include Rachmaninoff's Polichinelle (Op. 3, No. 4), Beethoven's "Moonlight" Sonata, Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2, and Bizet's famous duet, "Le bal" (performed with fellow UD student Michael Cetrangol; SEE SOUND CLIP BELOW).

When he is not performing or in school, you can usually find Michael playing "gigs" with his brothers Scott (18) and Dave (17). Together, these three talented musicians form the "Kilwein Family Tree-O." Scott, who can play any instrument that is given to him, is known for his improvisational skills on the keyboard, while Dave is a an energetic drummer. These three musicians combine for an impressive stage performance.

Besides playing the piano, Michael has also aquired a "knack" for singing and playing the organ. At UD, Michael is involved with the University Chorale, Celebration Vocal Transit, and Piano Ensemble. You can also find him singing and playing for a Music Ministry choir at the 10 PM mass held in UD's chapel.

When Michael is not playing with "the band," singing, studying, whatever, you might find him playing basketball or other sports. He was player/coach for the "Tritones," the Music Department's team in this year's intramural co-ed basketball league. You can also catch Michael every Monday night at 7:00 pm on WDCR Radio as he talks sports with the Dayton community.