Michael Mitchell, an accomplished pianist, has an eclectic style of playing pulling from his classical training, gospel roots, love of jazz, and gift from God. The development of his style has been enhanced by his desire to learn, teach, and travel.
Michael, most notably, arranged and recorded “Un Peu Plus Haut, Un Peu Plus Loin” for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada, which was performed at the Opening Ceremony by the international artist: Garou. His Broadway credits include: Nice Work If You Can Get It , Motown, Memphis, and Baby It's You. He completed 4 years conducting/music directing/lead pianist for the North American Tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar” starring Ted Neeley, of the motion picture Jesus Christ Superstar. Michael was the Music Director for the revolutionary gospel musical experience, Jesus Christ Superstar Gospel, which premiered in Atlanta, GA at the Tony Award winning Alliance Theater. He was awarded the Suzi Bass Award for ‘Best Musical Director’ for this production. As the Music Director for The Best of Both Worlds, directed by Diane Paulus, Michael was nominated for the Independent Reviewers of New England Award for the Best Music Director. Also, was the band leader for the Harlem Boy’s and Girls Alumni Ensemble at the Music and Arts Festival in Beijing, China. Michael can be seen performing on New York's most prestigious stages like Carnegie Hall, The Apollo Theater, Alice Tully Hall, and 54 Below.
Michael received his music business degree from DePauw University; where he was part of the orchestra, band, jazz band and other music ensembles. As a pianist/keyboardist, Michael has performed with Bob Mintzer of the Grammy Winning Yellowjackets, Grammy/SAG/Emmy/Golden Globe winner Michael J. Fox, Tony winner Brian Stokes Mitchell, Tony winner Lillias White, Tony winner Hinton Battle, Grammy winner Kid Cudi, Joan Osborne, The Boys and Girls Choir of Harlem, Jim Widner, and many others. Deemed one of the up and coming great versatile pianists, he was a guest soloist on St. Louis’ leading classical station, Classic 99. Michael received honorable mention from the Stravinsky International Piano Competition.
As a percussionist, Michael performed with The American Musical Ambassador Concert Band (European tour) and the John Philip Sousa Concert Band (Washington, DC). He has received many regional and national awards in both piano and percussions. Michael composed, arranged, performed and produced on several albums nationally and internationally including: Hot, Live & More with David A. Tobin’s Ministry of Song (Germany, Holland); Evolution with Yewende on Lotus Records; Smashing Musical Barriers with 3 Mo’ Divas, and Melodies of the Heart with Arlene Frink. Michael is a member of the Mu Phi Epsilon International Musical Fraternity.
Michael continues to perform internationally and nationally. He is also working on a solo project filled with sounds of jazz, gospel, classical, soul and blues. Michael is grateful to God and for the support of his family and friends who have all aided in his success and development as a man and a musician.
