Michael Zellgert attended the University of Wisconsin-Superior, where he studied violin performance and conducting, including both choral and orchestral technique with Diane Balko and David Scott. In addition, he received mentoring under Markand Thakar from Peabody Institute of The John Hopkins University and Yong-Yan Hu, former Rostock Philharmonie & Shanghai Broadcast Symphony director.
Zellgert has appeared as a soloist with community and university orchestras throughout Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin, including Gustavus Adolphus College and the University of Wisconsin - Superior. He has served as concertmaster of the Itasca Symphony Orchestra, Heartland Symphony Orchestra, and as principal 2nd violin and concertmaster of the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra, along with performing as a violinist with the Minnesota Ballet, the Duluth Festival Opera, and the Lyric Opera of the North.
Throughout his career as a violinist, he has performed with small ensembles including the Dynamic String Quartet, Highland Quartet, Saint Benedicta Trio, Pastiche, and Music Saint Croix.
Michael has served as the music director of the Duluth (Woodland) Community Orchestra, Long Prairie Chamber Orchestra, and Crow River Area Youth Orchestra and is a guest and cover conductor with regional orchestras including the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra, Heartland Symphony Orchestra, Buffalo Community Orchestra, Willmar Area Symphonic Orchestra, and Amadeus Chamber Symphony. His interest in music education has led him to conduct string sectionals for the College of St. Benedict/St John's University Orchestra, clinics for high school orchestras, and has adjudicated auditions for solo/ensembles and camps including Interlochen Camp for the Arts.
Several of the members in his studio have achieved All-State Orchestra placement for both middle school and high school, some reaching principal positions in both tiers. Additionally, many of the students seeking college scholarships have been awarded from $2000 to a full-ride music scholarship.
In addition to 30+ years of performance and teaching, Zellgert has held office on orchestra and arts boards throughout Minnesota, including the Chamber Music Society of St. Cloud and the Prairie Arts Council. His background has included administrative positions like the Director of Operations & Personnel with the Duluth-Superior Symphony.
Michael maintains a private studio, a member with the Duluth-Superior Symphony Orchestra, member of the St Cloud String Quartet, the Islay Trio, and artistic director/founder of the Central Minnesota Youth Orchestra and the Central Minnesota Community Orchestra