Mike Melvoin

by Scott Yanow Because he is based in Los Angeles and has worked extensively in the studios, pianist Mike Melvoin has not yet gained the fame that he deserves for his impressive technique and strong jazz improvising talents. He began playing piano when he was three but graduated from Dartmouth in 1959 with a degree in English. However, Melvoin soon chose to become a professional musician. He moved to Los Angeles in 1961 and worked with many top West Coast players and performers including Frank Rosolino, Leroy Vinnegar, Gerald Wilson, Paul Horn, Terry Gibbs, Joe Williams, Peggy Lee and many others. Although busy in the studios, Melvoin recorded for Concord in the mid-'70s (with Herb Ellis and Plas Johnson), has worked occasionally in L.A. area clubs and often teams up with singer Bill Henderson. Melvoin led two albums for Liberty in 1966 and one for Discwasher in 1979.