The Band

Michael Christopher - Lead Vocals / Rhythm Guitar

From the moment you first listen to a Michael Christopher song you'll find yourself tapping your toes and singing the songs in your head for days to come. Michael's invocative storytelling and transfixing voice seem to paint a picture with lyrics and music. He's fresh on the scene and brings a distinctive edge of showmanship and swagger to the country genre.

Despite growing up in a small town in the heart of rural Pennsylvania, singer-songwriter Michael Christopher didn't discover country music until he was introduced to line dancing during his college years. The storytelling within the songs made an impression on him, and from that moment he was hooked on the way country provided a narrative to the struggles and joys of everyday life. Shortly thereafter he began singing and playing guitar and found that country really suited his style.

In 2008 Michael put together some highly experienced musicians in the Pittsburgh area to form the "Michael Christopher Band." They quickly two-stepped their way onto the country music scene. The band became a favorite at popular festivals, fairs, celebrations and other events and venues while opening for several national acts including Jamey Johnson, Phil Vassar, Colt Ford and Steve Holy.

Michael regularly makes trips to Music City to co-write with some of Nashville's most talented and successful songwriters like Sarah Majors, Karen Staley, and Jon Conley. He recently recorded a demo of original songs at the famous Sound Kitchen in Franklin, TN, produced by veteran record producer Kent Wells. Kent has worked with many of Nashville's big stars including Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Lee Ann Womack, and Keith Urban to name a few. Along with Producer Kent Wells, Michael has also recorded with Nashville songwriter/producer Phillip Moore to complete work on his upcoming full-length album. Phillip has produced and developed many artists in Nashville for over 12 years. In 2005, Phillip co-produced, with Buddy Cannon (Kenny Chesney's producer), Warner Brothers recording artist Ray Scott's debut album My Kind Of Music. The album included the top-40 single "My Kind Of Music" and was critically acclaimed by numerous music publications.

Michael Christopher has an unrivaled enthusiasm for performing country music and is excited to be receiving airplay from radio stations across the country. Stay tuned for more from Michael Christopher!

Antonio Gatto - Lead Guitar

Antonio is an actor, singer & musician. He is a lead and rhythm guitarist and has been involved in music since the age of 7 and has performed regularly in many musical reviews and stage performances throughout the past decade. Guitar & vocal experience ranges from 50's-60's oldies, classic rock, metal, American folk, country, acoustic style & Broadway. In addition to being the lead guitarist for Michael Christopher, he is also currently a singer/guitarist in a Simon & Garfunkel tribute duo which has been up and running since early 2005.

From 2002 to 2007 he performed extensively with many theater companies throughout the Pittsburgh area including Pittsburgh CLO, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Musical Theatre, Latshaw Productions, The Theatre Factory, Prime Stage Theatre, Pittsburgh New Works Festival and at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort to name a few. In 2003 he was seen in the comedy Send Me No Flowers with national comedian Mr. Charlie Prose. His most recent theater production included Always Patsy Cline with Pittsburgh CLO in the 2007 season. Favorite theatrical credits include Hair, 1776, Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar, Send Me No Flowers, La Traviata, Of Thee I Sing and Fedelio.

Antonio is thrilled to be playing with the Michael Christopher Band and looking forward to some exciting upcoming shows.

Rich Gibson - Pedal Steel Guitar / Dobro / Banjo

Rich's life has revolved around music ever since he can remember. After attending The Berklee College of Music he has accumulated 36 years of professional performing experience in numerous jazz, R&B, and country acts including 20 years as the band leader and guitarist for The Hurricanes. Rich was a founding member of  CAPA High Schools’ faculty and currently serves as the Guitar Chair for CAPA 6-12.

Some of Rich's notable performance experiences include The Main Stage Mellon Jazz Festival with the Rich Gibson Quartet, numerous appearances at the Pittsburgh Arts Festival and opening for national acts with The Hurricanes.  He also served as the Music Director for a 16 month run of Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding at Station Square in addition to being the Pedal Steel Guitarist for the 2006-2007 Pittsburgh CLO’s production of Always Patsy Cline. 

Rich is excited to be adding his country flavor as a multi-instrumentalist to the Michael Christopher Band.

Perry Pinto - Bass Guitar / Vocals

Perry is a native of Vandergrift, PA and has been playing bass since the age of 16 when his trombone teacher suggested he would find more opportunities if he learned to double on bass.

Over the years Perry has played with several local country favorites and has opened shows for legends such as Billy Walker and Bill Monroe. He was also on bass when Gran Ole Opry member Jan Howard made a Pittsburgh appearance for hospitalized veterans from the tristate area. Perry lists one of his favorite experiences as playing bass for the Pittsburgh CLO’s production of Always Patsy Cline. Perry has performed in 7 countries and 15 states and continues to play with some of the region’s best known bands. When not with the Michael Christopher Band, he can be seen with John McDonald & the Mango Men and RML Jazz.

Perry looks forward to every show with the Michael Christopher Band and hopes to see you at an upcoming show soon!

Jim Behon - Drums / Vocals

Watch Jim light up when he takes the stage with the Michael Christopher Band as drumming is what makes him happy! Jim has been in bands playing professionally for nearly 20 years. He anchored several country bands over the years, including Rex Rider and the Cavalry, Bandolera, Uptown Country and most recently Young Guns. Jim also laid down the beats for several 80's rock bands but his heart always remained in country music.

Prepare to hear a new spin on some old favorites as Jim favors danceable beats and loves to get people on the dance floor!