Michael Cutting (b. 1987) spent his childhood in southern Hampshire, where he learnt the piano and violin from an early age.

By 16, Michael became interested in composition and sought the guidance of Macedonian composer Pande Shahov.

In 2004, he won his first national competition organised by the Endymion Ensemble and had New Day played in the Purcell Room, London .

Since he was accepted into the Royal Northern College of Music in 2005, Michael has won numerous competitions including the Hampshire County Youth Orchestra Composer Competition, BBC Proms/Guardian Young Composer Competition and most recently the Lancashire Sinfonietta Christopher Brooks Memorial Prize, making him composer in residence for the ensemble for the 2008/2009 season. Michael has also had numerous other works commissioned and performed in the Hampshire and Manchester areas.

At the Royal Northern College of Music, Michael has studied with Gary Carpenter and Adam Gorb and is currently in his fourth year of the undergraduate course.