Music & Ministry

Dr. Michelle Elizabeth Flaherty is a lifelong musician, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with a passion for bringing people together through music. With more than a decade of experience in music ministry and worship leadership, Michelle has helped congregations connect through contemporary Christian worship, meaningful musical experiences, and the shared joy of song.

Currently serving as the Contemporary Music Director at Messiah Lutheran Church, Michelle brings her talents in voice, guitar, piano, ukulele, and a variety of other instruments to worship services, special events, and community gatherings. Her musical interests extend well beyond the church, encompassing original songwriting, recording, live performance, and collaborative music-making across multiple genres.

Michelle is also a recording artist whose album Tomorrow, originally released in 2009, features 13 original songs. Digitally re-released in 2026, the album represents an early chapter in her musical journey and reflects her longstanding love of songwriting and creative expression. Through her original compositions, Michelle continues to explore music as a means of storytelling, reflection, and personal connection.

Listen to Tomorrow — 2026

As a certified sound healer, Michelle also explores the restorative qualities of music through immersive sound bath experiences. Combining singing bowls, instrumental soundscapes, and guided meditation, she creates opportunities for relaxation, mindfulness, spiritual reflection, and personal renewal. Her sound bath offerings include both faith-centered and universally accessible experiences.

Beyond her own performances and recordings, Michelle is passionate about making music accessible to others. As a ukulele instructor at the Erie Cancer Wellness Center, she leads We Play for Cake, a group of musicians brought together through friendship, laughter, and a shared love of music. Through performances and community outreach, the group celebrates hope, connection, and the joy of making music together while raising awareness of the Center's supportive services.

Whether leading worship, writing an original song, facilitating a sound bath, or encouraging someone to pick up an instrument for the very first time, Michelle believes music has an extraordinary ability to connect, comfort, inspire, and heal.

For Michelle, music is more than something we hear. It is something we experience, something we share, and something that stays with us long after the final note.