MIMA ’26 Staff Members- Orkisz, Emerson

Each Musicians Abroad tour is guided by an outstanding team of educators who bring leadership, experience and enthusiasm to every step of the journey. These dedicated professionals support students through rehearsals, performances and travel abroad, ensuring each participant has a meaningful and unforgettable experience.

Aaron Orkisz

Aaron Orkisz has served as the Director of Bands at Goodrich HS (MI) since 2002. In this role, he has led and instructed a wide range of ensembles and classes, including the Martian Marching Band, numerous pit orchestras, the Percussion Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Choir and the 5th Grade Beginning Band.
Mr. Orkisz earned his degree in Instrumental Music Education from Michigan State University, where he was an active and dedicated member of the renowned Michigan State Spartan Marching Band. He also performed with the Spartan Brass, the university’s pep band supporting volleyball, basketball and hockey programs. As a music major, he participated in several ensembles within MSU’s School of Music, gaining a broad and rich performance background.
During the summers of his undergraduate years, Mr. Orkisz performed with the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps from Rockford, IL. Over three seasons with the corps, he received advanced instruction from top educators and performers, including Pete Bond, Retired Assistant Principal Trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera.
Mr. Orkisz went on to further his education at MSU, where he earned a Master of Music in Music Education in 2006, followed by a Master of Public Administration in Education in the summer of 2014.

Michael Emerson

Michael Emerson was the Director of Bands at Gaylord HS (MI) for three years before moving to lead the Holt HS (MI) bands in 2005. Under Emerson’s direction, the band has enjoyed much success at festivals and has a rigorous performance schedule. He joined the staff of Michigan Musicians Abroad for the 2017, 2019 and 2024 tours.
Mr. Emerson graduated with a bachelor’s degree of Music in Music Education from Michigan State University. While there, he served as Vice President for two seasons with the Spartan Marching Band and President for his final season in 2001. He earned a Master of Music Education at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 2007. When he isn’t working with the Holt Bands, he is an active clinician, adjudicator and family man and has recently enjoyed competing in sprint triathlons throughout the state of Michigan. He lives in Lansing with his wife, Amber and two sons, Ethan and Owen.