Michael Salgado

Bitter Jester Music Festival Judge

2014 & 2016 Bitter Jester Grand Champion

Michael Salgado discovered his love for music at the age of 13 when he listened to “Master of Reality” by Black Sabbath.

From there, he bought his first guitar and started learning songs by ear until he entered high school.

Michael then went on to start a jazz trio, which exposed him to the great musicians of the Chicago music scene under the guidance of Victor García.

In high school and college, Michael played in the top school bands, focusing on double bass with a major in Music Composition.

While studying at Loyola University of New Orleans, he immersed himself in the local jazz scene while balancing an intense gigging schedule.

Since graduating, Michael has toured multiple countries in South America and Europe (with former BJMF Grand Champion and fellow bandmate Kaeyra) along with various U.S states. He has also played with numerous Grammy nominees and winners over the years.

He currently teaches at School of Rock Highwood and School of Rock Evanston having previously taught at School of Rock Libertyville.