Mike Kaminski: Pianist, Educator, and Innovator
Inspiring Creativity, Discipline, and Joy in Music Education
Early Beginnings and Musical Roots
Mike Kaminski’s journey into the world of music began at the age of 10, when he first started playing the piano. By the time he was 13, Mike had already found a stage in his local church, performing regularly and nurturing his love for music in a supportive community environment. Throughout his teenage years and into early adulthood, Mike’s musical path expanded as he played keyboards in the rock band Rezound. With Rezound, he gained invaluable experience touring both nationally and internationally, further broadening his exposure and skills as a performer.
A Versatile Musical Foundation
Though Mike’s performance style is centered around improvisation and jazz, he possesses a strong foundation in reading and performing traditional classical music. This versatility is the result of many years of dedicated practice and a genuine passion for exploring diverse musical genres.
Academic Pursuits and Professional Growth
Mike chose to further his musical education during his first year in college, studying both classical and jazz music at Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. His academic journey eventually led to a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, which he earned in 2006. This combination of musical and business skills became the cornerstone for his next big venture—founding the East Valley School of Music in 2006.
Dedication to Teaching and Student Development
With over 20 years of experience teaching piano, Mike is deeply committed to helping students grow both musically and personally. He strives to inspire creativity and expression in every student, while also fostering essential life skills such as self-discipline, self-confidence, and adaptability. Mike believes that music lessons are a powerful tool for enriching child development, and he takes pride in guiding students on their journey to becoming accomplished pianists.
As Mike puts it, “I want to empower and inspire students to discover their musical abilities and talents while having fun learning how to play piano.” His teaching philosophy centers on making music both accessible and enjoyable, with a focus on nurturing each student’s unique potential.
Innovations in Music Education
Mike’s passion for education led him to author a new piano curriculum, Piano Power Quest. This engaging curriculum sets learning within the imaginative world of Middle C Earth, inspiring students through storytelling and gamification. By awarding stars for accuracy and effort, and incorporating vivid illustrations and maps, Piano Power Quest transforms piano lessons into an interactive adventure, empowering students to strive for excellence while enjoying the process.
Professional Leadership and Community Involvement
Mike joined the Music Teachers National Association in 2006, and his dedication to the profession extended to serving as a board member—and later president (2012-2013)—of the East Valley Music Teachers Association. Through these roles, he has contributed to the advancement of music education and fostered a collaborative community for fellow educators.
Ongoing Musical Contributions
In addition to his teaching and curriculum development, Mike continues to share his musical gifts as the musician’s director at Covenant Life Church in Chandler, AZ, where he plays piano weekly. Through his varied roles, Mike Kaminski exemplifies a lifelong dedication to music, education, and the enrichment of others’ lives through creative expression.
