A remarkable life story meets world-class musicianship at the Sanctuary of the Arts with pianist Mike Gerber
On a city night filled with rhythm and reflection, Miami’s music lovers are invited to experience something truly special. From Little Havana’s love of live music to Coral Gables’ elegant performance spaces, Miami has long celebrated artists who push boundaries. This January, one such artist — whose journey is as powerful as his sound — takes the stage for an unforgettable evening of piano at one of the city’s most intimate venues.
A musical journey shaped by talent and resilience
Born blind and partially deaf, Mike Gerber began playing the piano at just two and a half years old. His formal training started at the Missouri School for the Blind, where he studied under Dorothy Ziegler of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. By age 15, Gerber had already made his concert debut with the St. Louis Symphony — a sign of the extraordinary career ahead.
After discovering jazz through a Sunday radio show, Mike Gerber fell in love with improvisation and creative freedom. That passion led him to Miami and the University of Miami’s Studio Music and Jazz program, where he quickly became a standout performer on and off campus. His career soon expanded nationally, performing and recording with jazz legends including Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey, Ron Carter, Jaco Pastorius, and Pat Metheny.
A homecoming performance in Coral Gables
Now a respected educator and performer, Mike Gerber returns to the spotlight in a special recital presented by Bell Productions of Florida at Sanctuary of the Arts. The January 24, 2026 performance will feature a dynamic program blending classical piano works with beloved jazz standards — a reflection of Gerber’s unique musical voice.
In addition to his performance career, Mike Gerber has earned advanced degrees from Florida International University and serves on the piano faculty at Miami Dade College, continuing to shape the next generation of musicians. His story resonates deeply in a city like Miami, where culture, perseverance, and creativity go hand in hand.
The concert takes place at 7 p.m. at 410 Andalusia Avenue in Coral Gables, and tickets are available at https://www.sanctuaryofthearts.org/gerber.
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