Mike Nock has been central to Australian jazz for decades. As a pianist, composer, band leader, educator he is responsible for bringing dozens if not hundreds of young musicians into the Australian scene. His recordings go back to the 70s, performing with jazz greats such as Bennie Maupin and Cecil McBee as well as the musicians he has brought through in his trios, quartets, and little big bands in Australia. Until recently he was a regular presence at jazz gigs around Sydney checking out local and international talent. That was before he was struck by a car while he was on a pedestrian crossing. After spending six weeks hospitalized Mike is now going through a lengthy recuperation which will prevent him playing for months. In a tribute to Mike and to give him much needed support , over twenty of Sydney and Australia’s best jazz musicians are performing at a benefit night on Wednesday 29th August at Foundry 616.

Mike is joining Mick Paddon over the phone on Time and Space at 3.15 on August 22nd to talk about the accident, how it is affecting but how humbled he feels by the support being given by these many musicians playing at the Benefit.

Details of the benefit are on the Foundry 616 website at https://foundry616.com.au/product/29-august-mike-nock-benefit/