Michael Lerich and His Orchestra
Autobiography
Having been a principle partner in another company, I went on my own in July 1991. Throughout the 90’s and into the new millennium I had the privilege of being the Music and Entertainment Director for the Drake Hotel. I was the only Bandleader in the Midwest (quite possibly the country) to have been invited to have their office in a major hotel, and be its only referral source.
During that period of time aside from the work we handled at the Drake, we also performed on average at 90 functions per year. Some of those include the weddings of Roger Ebert, Allison Rosati, and Garry Meier to name a few. We had the privilege of playing at President Clinton’s First Inauguration. Those in the know understand that it is at the First Inauguration only that performers are fully compensated for their work and all travel related expenses thereby making it truly a special moment.
We have performed at most major Galas here in the Chicago area, most have invited us back several times over the years. What I am most proud of is that we have been invited back 14 out of the last 15 years to play at the North Shore Auxiliary of the Jewish Children’s Services Gala (formerly the Jewish Children’s Bureau), the last 9 years at the Emerald Ball for Old St. Patrick’s Church, the last 16 years for the Evening on Astor Street Block Party, the last 14 years for the Green Tree Ball and the last 13 years for the Children’s Medical Research Gala at the Ritz Carlton. In addition, this will be our 3rd year in a row of providing the music and entertainment for the Children’s Ball of Children’s Memorial Hospital. This is an unprecedented milestone for me and my organization in that there had never been a “back to back” repeat performance in the Ball’s history.
Since 2003 I have moved my office into my home where I concentrate on engagements for my orchestra, providing music for those who know what I do and the quality I provide and special projects which require both music and entertainment of various forms and styles.
