We recently connected with Michael Scherer and have shared our conversation below.
Michael, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience has been forged through pain, faith, and an unwavering belief that I was meant to create something meaningful—no matter the cost. I’ve lived through years of debilitating illness, battling three autoimmune diseases that robbed me of my ability to play the piano and even care for my children. There were many days I could not get out of bed, and many mornings I couldn’t move my fingers without my wife gently helping them unfold for 10-15 minutes at a time—simple moments that used to feel like the end of everything I loved.
I’ve also carried deep emotional wounds—decades of mental health struggles, spiritual abuse from a church I was fully committed to for 17 years, and the trauma of being silenced and held back from my dreams. Leaving that environment was one of the hardest, but most necessary decisions I’ve ever made. Since then, therapy, prayer, and the support of those closest to me have been lifelines.
Three years ago, I started a new injection treatment that, combined with prayer and faith, helped restore movement in my hands. I’ve now relearned how to play the piano three times, and somehow—I play better than ever before. That soft touch I developed through struggle has opened doors I never imagined—from composing jazz cues for The Young and the Restless to landing a sync deal writing for TV, film, and games.
Resilience, for me, is about refusing to quit. It’s about showing up when it’s hard, about rebuilding when everything falls apart. I’ve been through hell and back, but I still believe that healing is possible. I still believe the best is yet to come. That belief—that purpose—keeps me going every single day.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a music producer, jazz pianist, and composer with a passion for creating music that moves people—whether it’s on stage, on screen, or in the quiet moments of everyday life. Over the years, I’ve developed a unique style that blends emotional depth with musical precision, shaped not only by my training but by some of the most difficult experiences life has thrown at me.
What’s most special to me about what I do is the healing power of music. Having been through intense physical health struggles, mental health battles, and spiritual abuse, I’ve had to fight to get my life and art back.
As a producer, I also work with artists to help them unlock their authentic sound—guiding them through songwriting, vocal production, and the full creative process. I focus on these genres: pop, gospel, jazz, hiphop, R&B. My studio is a space where vulnerability and creativity go hand in hand. It’s not just about making great music—it’s about telling real stories with honesty and heart.
Looking ahead, I’m working on new projects that continue to push me creatively. I’m expanding my work in the sync world, composing across genres, and collaborating with other artists and storytellers. I believe music is a bridge—between pain and healing, between isolation and connection—and I’m just getting started in building something that lasts. My website is: www.michaelscherermusic.com
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resilience/determination, emotional authenticity in music, and a commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability.
Resilience/determination has been the backbone of everything. Living with multiple autoimmune diseases, battling mental health challenges, and having to rebuild my life—and even relearn my instrument—more than once taught me that strength isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up every single time. My advice to anyone starting out: expect setbacks. But don’t let them define you. Cultivate a mindset that views obstacles as opportunities to grow. Surround yourself with people who support your growth, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Emotional authenticity in music became my superpower. When I couldn’t move my fingers, I had to find new ways to express myself. That led to a softer, more nuanced touch—one that connects deeply with listeners. For those beginning their journey: dig deep into your own experiences. Don’t chase trends—create from the most honest parts of who you are. That’s where the most powerful music comes from.
Finally, lifelong learning and adaptability have allowed me to evolve. From production and songwriting to sync licensing and scoring for TV, I’ve had to constantly learn new skills and adapt to new industries. The music world is always changing. Be curious. Stay humble. Keep showing up. Even after two decades, I’m still a student of the craft—and that hunger to grow is what keeps me inspired.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes, I’m always looking to connect and collaborate with talented artists and songwriters—especially those interested in creating music for sync placements in TV, film, advertising, and video games. I’m also looking for artists who are ready to take their songs to the next level with full production support.
I specialize in helping artists bring their vision to life from start to finish: songwriting, crafting custom instrumental tracks, vocal production during recording sessions, and the full post-production process—editing, mixing, and mastering. Whether you have a rough idea or a fully written song, I can help shape it into a polished, industry-ready track.
If you’re passionate about making meaningful, high-quality music and are interested in working together, feel free to reach out. You can contact me directly at michael@michaelscherermusic.com or through my website: www.michaelscherermusic.com.
Let’s make something incredible!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.michaelscherermusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelscherermusic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566868448439
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-scherer-6b958425/
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