For piano soloist and composer Cody Michaels, "the piano is a way to connect with the mystery of creation and every song is a prayer offered to the universe."
Cody is the youngest son of the late jazz pianist Alexander J. Cody. He began playing the piano in 1964, prior to the age of four. His diverse influences range from classical to contemporary, jazz, popular, and more.
A former park ranger and mountaineer, Cody's passionate, contemplative music "captures the essence of spirit and beauty of nature as few before" (Lucky Clark, The Cool News). Also a storyteller and poet, since 1983 his inspiring performances have captivated numerous audiences in the USA and Europe.
Cody's CD's of original piano solos, A Creation Prayer and Primum Non Nocere, have garnered wide critical acclaim and airplay in the United States. Critics, presenters, and fans alike have praised his exquisite touch as well as the lyrical / melodic qualities, harmonic sophisitication, and exceptional beauty of his highly textured compositions and interpretations.
Special accolades for Cody's music include a "Very Best of New Hampshire" award from New Hampshire Magazine. To quote EnjoyTheMusic.com's Steven Rochlin, he is "one of the finest in his class... a must for all solo piano lovers".
Cody has created more than sixty works for solo piano to date, primarily neo-classical and contemporary plus several jazz, blues, and rag pieces. His third release is planned for September 2007.
Quotes
"From the enthusiastic response, it is clear that Michaels has wide appeal. His work is ingeniously inspired, intracately composed, and phenomenally retained. As for words to describe his music, here are a few: beautiful, melodic, textured, evocative, trascendent." (Jay Sprout, Director; "First Night" St. Johnsbury, VT)
"Michaels' playing is powerful, challenging, and highly expressive. He courageously takes the listener to the who-knows-where of his passions." (Jane Wilcox Hively, Editor, Mountain Streams Gazette)
"Michaels' music is truly entrancing... the finesse emanating from his piano is as natural as breath. All is expressed with a melodic precision capable only of those who genuinely believe in every note they play." (James S. Pike, Face Magazine)
"Hello. I just read your review of Cody Michaels' A Creation Prayer, and I want you to know that his musicianship is even more rich and enjoyable in concert!" (Emily, EnjoyTheMusic.com's "Letters To Us")
Contact Info
Snail Mail: PO Box 335 / Montpelier, VT 05601 / USA
Email Cody Micahels
Voice Mail: 888-654-8670