About Mike
Mike Shaw is an Atlanta-based writer and musician. A singer-pianist, he began touring in the late 1960s, performing in nightclubs and on concert stages, solo and with small combos, ultimately settling in New Orleans in the late ‘70s. He currently heads up a jazz quartet in Atlanta. As a writer, Mike is the author or co-author of seven traditionally published books, including the November 2026 release, What You Learn Learning Music, which he co-authored with internationally acclaimed jazz pianist and educator Kevin Bales. Since 2024, the two lifelong musicians have published a bi-weekly podcast, Music Life and Times, a discussion of the benefits of learning to play and perform music and the positive impact of music on people's lives. Mike has founded and presided over three Atlanta-based marketing agencies, including his current firm, Shade Communications, through which he has authored more than 15,000 published articles, from investigative pieces adopted by 60 Minutes and ABC 20/20 to articles, white papers, and blogs for corporate clients.
Stories, Insights, Lessons Learned
Co-authors Kevin Bales and Mike Shaw draw on decades of performing, teaching, touring, and listening to show what music demands beyond talent. From purposeful practice and improvisation to mentorship, audience connection, creative risk, and the real business of making a life in music, they bring lessons from the bandstand into everyday life.
The next time you sit down to play, listen, or create, you may hear possibility differently.
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WHAT YOU LEARN
LEARNING MUSIC
What You Learn Learning Music, a conversation between jazz pianist and educator Kevin Bales and singer-pianist Mike Shaw on the life lessons that learning to play music teaches
“An inspiring book packed with tales and insights, which will enrich the musical lives of all who read it. Bravo!”
Christopher Sutton, Author of Musicality and Founder of Musical U
