Michael R. Gagliardo was named the second Music Director and Conductor of the Etowah Youth Orchestras in August of 1995. Since his appointment, he has led the EYO to national recognition, including the receipt of ten ASCAP Awards for Programming of Contemporary Music. Under Mr. Gagliardo's direction, the Orchestras have performed numerous concerts throughout the United States and Great Britain, including "by-invitation" performances at Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln and Kennedy Centers for the Performing Arts
Mr. Gagliardo has served as Guest Conductor of the 2009 and 1997 Alabama All-State Orchestra Festival, the 2008 Colorado All-State Orchestra Festival, and the 2003 All-West Tennesse Honor Orchestra Festival Senior Orchestra
Mr. Gagliardo received a Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Music Degree in Orchestral Conducting from Ball State University. He has served as a presenter at the League of American Orchestras’ National Conference, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame's Summer Teacher's Institute, the Alabama Music Educators Association Conference, and the ASTA National Conference. He currently serves as the Chair of the 2010 National High School Honors Orchestra for ASTA.
Mr. Gagliardo is the founder and CEO of Wonder Dog Press and Daphne Roo Music,. He resides in Glencoe, Alabama, with his wife Melia and their four dogs, Daphne, Lady, Jake, and Gracie.