Mick has been teaching piano for over 30 years. His students have attended the Berkley School of Music, the University of Michigan, Wayne State University and Michigan State University. He teaches classical, jazz, popular, rock, blues, latin, gospel, boogie woogie, stride and New Orleans style piano.

Mick begins lessons teaching foundational elements. Students learn to read music and learn about rhythms and music theory. Once a student is comfortable with this we center on whatever their interests are.

The first word of Miles Davis’ autobiography is “Listen”. Students are taught the value of critical analysis of sound. Jazz students are encouraged to transcribe solos. Classical students compare and contrast different performances of pieces that they are working on. Popular music is more effectively performed by playing along with the song.Mick breaks down and helps the student prepare for performances and develop a high level of consistency in their playing.

Mick teaches students who sing to accompany themselves on piano. Classic examples like the songs of Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Ray Charles and Joni Mitchell are analyzed and explained. Mick also helps students prepare for recordings by learning arrangement and performance skills.

Mick prepares students for college auditions. He also helps prepare students for college piano proficiency examinations. His students have gotten music scholarships.