Michael Hearst is a composer, multi-instrumentalist, and writer, whose projects are characterized by a fascination with extremely specific themes. His most recent project is a four-part book series that includes Unusual Creatures, Extraordinary People, Curious Constructions, and Unconventional Vehicles. Each book includes a companion album, and Unusual Creatures was also made into a PBS Digital series. Hearst is also a founding member of the band One Ring Zero and has performed and given lectures and workshops at universities, museums, and cultural centers around the world. He has toured with The Magnetic Fields, performed with The Kronos Quartet at Carnegie Hall, and appeared on such shows as NPR's Fresh Air, A+E's Breakfast With The Arts, and NBC's The Today Show.