Michael Roach is a pianist/keyboardist based in New York State. At first listen, one can surmise that Mr. Roach relies on traditional acoustic piano sounds. However, as one ventures further into his solo work and ensemble work with jazz trio TEN27 it becomes evident that he has a penchant for vintage electric piano.
His jazz piano influences include, but are not limited to: Herbie Hancock, George Duke, Joe Sample, and Keith Jarrett. In addition to jazz music, he enjoys playing and listening to other genres of music. Performers that compose music can find the task to be very challenging. In Michael's case this is very true, but the challenge, he believes, gives him emotional and tonal strength. He has composed music for his trio, vocalists, and for a theatrical production of Oedipus in New York City. He writes and arranges music for ensembles and for other instruments beside the piano.
He has worked with vocalists on projects in music styles such as Rhythm and Blues, Blues, Gospel Music, Funk, and Rock. Most recently he was an Artist-in-Residence, at the Pearl Restaurant in Albany, New York. There, he focused on original pieces and standards. The repertoire that he maintains has elements of obscurity, moodiness, with occasional familiarity.
Valuable music experience was gained from producing and engineering music at prominent recording and multimedia studios in New York City. This experience has allowed him to approach music with an aural imagination and a sense of possibility.