Michael L. Shaffer is the founding president of the Southwest Ohio Philharmonic (SWOP) and currently holds the title of President Emeritus. A dedicated musician and retired educational administrator, Mr. Shaffer earned his master’s degree in Curriculum and Supervision and his bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Wright State University in Dayton, OH. He also holds a Superintendent’s Certificate in Education for the State of Ohio. 

Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Shaffer has made significant contributions to arts education. He served as the Director of Fine Arts for the Dayton City School District and was an active member of both the Dayton Philharmonic Education Committee and the Dayton Art Institute Exhibition and Education Committee.

In addition to his administrative roles, Mr. Shaffer was a principal and music supervisor in the Huber Heights City School System, where he taught band and orchestra for 30 years. He performed as the first violist of the Stylistic Strings Quartet for 35 years, showcasing his commitment to music performance.

His passion for music education extended to his role as the youth director of the Middletown Symphony Orchestra. He has also served as a judge for various adjudicated music events and as an instructor at several music academies. Mr. Shaffer was treasurer for two terms with the Southern Ohio Regional Orchestra and has frequently been invited as a guest conductor at various educational performances, sharing his expertise and love for music with students and audiences alike.