Mike Nock

Who is Mike Nock?

Michael Anthony Nock, ONZM, is a jazz pianist, currently based in Australia.

Nock began studying piano at 11. He attended Nelson College for one term in 1955. By the age of 18, he was performing in Australia. He headed a trio that toured England in 1961 and then attended Berklee College of Music. He was a member of Yusef Lateef's band from 1963 to 1965.

During 1968–1970 Nock was involved with fusion, leading the Fourth Way band. After a few years he became a studio musician in New York and then returned to Australia.

His 1987 album Open Door with drummer Frank Gibson, Jr. was named that year's Best Jazz Album in the New Zealand Music Awards.

In the 2003 New Year Honours, Nock was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to jazz.

He currently lives in New South Wales where he teaches at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and performs with both his trio and big band. One of his most recent releases is a live recording with saxophonist Dave Liebman.