Unlock the Music Within You with Mick Dobday

Imagine sitting at a piano, your fingers gliding over the keys, bringing music to life. Whether you're just starting or ready to refine your skills, Mick Dobday is here to guide you on your musical journey. A lifelong pianist and composer, Mick’s passion for music shines through every lesson, performance, and creation. His teaching isn’t just about learning to play piano—it’s about discovering your voice through music.

Mick began his musical journey at age seven, studying classical music with the legendary Misha Kottler, whose teaching lineage traces back to the likes of Liszt, Beethoven, and Haydn. Expanding his repertoire, he studied jazz performance, composition, and arranging at Wayne State University under the guidance of Matt Michaels. Mick’s journey has brought him into the company of jazz legends—collaborating with musicians who played alongside Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, John Coltrane, and Sun Ra. These experiences have shaped his understanding of music as an interconnected, living art form.

From performing with the Funk Brothers at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to recording and touring internationally with his award-winning band Blue Dog, Mick has left an indelible mark on the music world. His compositions have been celebrated on records like What is Anything? and Lurch, and his band has garnered recognition at festivals across the globe, including the Texaco Jazz Festival and Kongsberg Jazz Festival in Norway. Whether blending genres in New York’s downtown music scene or honoring Detroit’s jazz legacy, Mick’s artistry knows no bounds.

Mick’s teaching studio in Ann Arbor is more than a space to learn—it’s a sanctuary for creativity. His approach combines his deep classical roots with a love of jazz improvisation and contemporary styles. Students are invited to explore their musicality in a supportive environment, discovering the joy and freedom that comes from making music.

In addition to teaching and performing, Mick is a multifaceted artist—painter, writer, and filmmaker—whose creative projects include graphic novels inspired by his original film scores. This diverse artistic background enriches his teaching, offering students a unique perspective on music as part of a larger creative expression.

Whether you're looking to learn piano for the first time, explore jazz improvisation, or deepen your connection to music, Mick Dobday is ready to help you turn your dreams into reality.

Your journey begins with a single note. Visit Mick’s studio in Ann Arbor or explore lessons and merchandise on the website. Let Mick guide you as you transform your love of music into something extraordinary.