mike pappert

What is your favorite part of coaching at ROC Star Academy?  

Definitely the students…their love of music and endless energy is infectious. I absolutely love teaching and coaching…it gives me so much joy and truly makes my life complete. 

 

Hometown: Mendon, NY
 

Your musical focus/instruments you play: 

Vocals, Guitar, Piano/Keys, Bass, Songwriting, Music Theory, Ear Training, Harp, Ukulele, French Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba

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What is your musical background?  

I started piano and guitar lessons at age 10, under the direction of Garry Manuel. After high school, I went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from The Berklee College of Music in Boston. After Berklee, I continued my graduate studies at Roberts Wesleyan College, where I earned teaching certification in Music (K-12).

 

When did you start pursuing music?  

I saw my first episode of ‘The Monkees’ at age 3…and I knew immediately that I wanted to dedicate my life to playing music.

 

What are your musical influences/favorite bands?  

Although I love music from all types of genres, I have to say that the British Invasion sounds of the 60’s are some that have influenced me the most. As for my favorite bands and artists, I’ve always loved The Beatles, The Who, The Kinks, Bob Dylan, my first local mentor and teacher Garry Manuel, Ella Fitzgerald, Jim Morrison and The Doors, Crowded House, and Tom Petty.

 

What one album would you choose if you were stranded on a deserted island?

Hmmm…this is such a hard question. It’s either Genesis’ first album, "From Genesis to Revelation," or "Tommy" by The Who.

 

What is your favorite venue or event that you’ve performed? 

Definitely The Ritz in NYC at a Joey Ramone gala concert. At the time, I was the guitar and keyboard player in The Chesterfield Kings. MTV and Kurt Loder covered the event, and it was very cool.

 

What’s the craziest thing that ever happened to you on-stage? 

I got hit in the head with our bass player’s headstock during a show in Italy. I was dizzy and saw stars the rest of the night, but the show still went on! 

 

What’s the best piece of musical advice you’ve received in your career thus far? 

Always finish writing a song as soon as you start it, especially when it’s still fresh in your mind.