As a child, Michael started playing the cello but found that he was more interested in the instruments themselves than learning to play them. As a young man he was a professional photographer but soon started working at major violin shops in Chicago doing repairs and restorations, starting his career as a maker. He also worked with Tetsuo Matsuda and William Whedbee, perfecting his lutherie skills. In 2005, he joined forces with Stefan Hersh, forming Darnton & Hersh in downtown Chicago.