Sometimes a single moment can quietly change the direction of an entire life. For Michael Onsy, that moment came when he asked his father to buy him an oud. What appeared to be a small request became the foundation of a lifelong bond with music, shaping his identity, career, and purpose.
Today, Michael Onsy is known as a dedicated oud player, music composer, and the creator of the Mood of Oud project. His journey reflects patience, courage, and the belief that true fulfillment comes from following one’s passion with honesty and discipline.
A Father’s Influence and a Life Changing Gift
Michael Onsy grew up in a home where music was deeply appreciated. His father had a refined taste in music and was strongly influenced by legendary oud masters such as Farid Al Atrash, Ammar Al Sherei, and Naseer Shamma. These influences naturally shaped Michael Onsy’s understanding of music from a young age.
When his father surprised him one day with his first oud, Michael Onsy felt an immediate and powerful connection. From the first moment he touched the strings, he knew this instrument would become an essential part of his life. The oud was no longer just an object, but a companion and a voice for emotions he could not always express in words.
Discovering Music as an Emotional Language
For Michael Onsy, music was never only about technique or performance. It was about feeling and expression. As he practiced, he began to understand that every note carried emotion and every melody told a story.
The oud allowed him to explore inner thoughts, moods, and memories. Over time, he developed a style that focused on emotional depth rather than speed or complexity. This emotional approach later became one of the most defining elements of his musical identity.
He also learned early that progress in music requires patience. Mastery does not happen quickly, and true growth comes from consistent effort and respect for the learning process.
Choosing Stability Before Passion
Like many people, Michael Onsy initially chose a stable career path. He worked as a banker, a profession that offered security and structure. Although his professional life appeared successful, music remained close to his heart.
Even while working in banking, the oud continued to be his escape and his comfort. Balancing professional responsibilities with a growing passion for music was challenging, but Michael Onsy never let go of his artistic side.
Over time, the gap between his professional life and his true calling became impossible to ignore.
A Bold Decision to Change Careers
Leaving the banking sector to pursue music professionally was one of the most difficult decisions Michael Onsy ever made. The transition meant giving up financial security and stepping into an uncertain future.
After graduating from The Arabic Oud House in Cairo, Michael Onsy decided to fully commit to music. The shift was not easy, but it was honest. He believed that a meaningful life requires courage and faith in one’s abilities.
This decision marked a turning point where passion finally took priority over comfort.
Music Town and the Joy of Teaching
Michael Onsy’s journey did not stop at personal achievement. Wanting to share his knowledge and experience, he founded his own music academy called Music Town.
The vision behind Music Town was to make music learning enjoyable and accessible to everyone. Michael Onsy wanted students to feel inspired rather than pressured and confident rather than intimidated.
At Music Town, music is taught as a living and emotional experience. Through this academy, Michael Onsy has helped many students discover their musical potential and build confidence through sound.
The Meaning Behind the Mood of Oud Project
Michael Onsy hopes to be remembered as the music composer and oud player behind the Mood of Oud project. This project reflects his belief that music is closely connected to emotional states and inner journeys.
Each composition is created to reflect a specific mood, allowing listeners to connect with the music in a personal way. Michael Onsy does not try to control how people feel while listening. Instead, he invites them to explore their own emotions through sound.
For him, the success of music is measured by its emotional impact rather than popularity or numbers.
From Live Performances to Studio Recordings
For many years, most of Michael Onsy’s compositions were recorded during live concerts. These recordings captured raw emotion and energy, but he later realized the importance of studio recording to reach a wider audience.
Currently, Michael Onsy is focused on professionally recording his compositions in the studio. This step allows his music to be shared across digital platforms while maintaining clarity and emotional depth.
By combining traditional expression with modern tools, he is expanding the reach of his music without losing its authenticity.
The Power of Practice and Patience
One of the strongest beliefs Michael Onsy holds is that practice and patience are essential to achieving greatness. In a fast moving world where instant results are expected, he believes this mindset has been lost.
Music requires time, dedication, and humility. Michael Onsy sees patience as a strength that allows artists to grow naturally and honestly.
His philosophy encourages long term commitment and respect for the artistic process.
Balancing Tradition with Modern Tools
While Michael Onsy deeply respects musical traditions, he also understands the importance of modern technology. Digital tools, when used wisely, help musicians preserve their work and reach larger audiences.
Michael Onsy believes artists should adapt without losing their identity. Technology should serve the art, not replace its soul.
This balance between tradition and innovation defines his creative approach.
Music That Connects With People
Listeners often describe Michael Onsy’s music as calming, emotional, and deeply personal. His compositions guide people through different emotional states and help them reflect, relax, and reconnect with themselves.
He plays with honesty and sensitivity, focusing on connection rather than performance alone. This emotional sincerity is what allows his music to leave a lasting impression.
An Ongoing Journey of Purpose
Born on November 30, 1985, Michael Onsy continues to grow as a composer, performer, and educator. With new studio recordings underway and his academy continuing to inspire students, his journey is still evolving.
His story serves as inspiration for anyone struggling between stability and passion. Through patience, practice, and belief, Michael Onsy proves that choosing a meaningful path is always worth the effort.
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