Meet the band
PianoRocketman
Lead vocals/Piano: Patrick Ray Walsh.
Guitar/Backing vocals: O. Cooper.
Bass Guitar: Chris J DUrso.
Drums/Backing vocals: Mike Schankman.
Backing vocals/Percussion: Mimi Schankman.
Saxophone/Keyboards: Ron Lorenzo
Patrick Ray Walsh
Lead vocals/Piano
Multi-talented musician, singer, songwriter born and raised in upstate New York. Found a love for performing music at a very young age influenced by many different genres and styles. Always performing with a passion for each song he belts out through his voice, and each note he plays on the piano. Never settling always reinventing his craft and talent. When you close your eyes and listen you feel like the artist he is performing is right there in the room with you. A rare talent that you defiantly won't want to miss out on seeing live. "I have loved Billy and Elton for so long and wanted to pay tribute to the love and joy that they provided and inspired me for so many years."
Chris J DUrso
Bass Guitar
Chris a New York native performed his first show in Brooklyn back in 1978. Since that time, he has played in a variety of musical situations throughout New York and across the United States, reflecting extensive live performance experience. While playing the corporate and nightclub scenes in the 80's and 90's, Chris pursued a variety of musical interests that would further develop his musical vocabulary. These included involvement in progressive and improvisational situations and, as well, performance in a variety of theatre productions. When performing Chris will take you on a journey like no other giving you that low bottom presence that will send chills up your body planting a smile of satisfaction on your face as he glides over the strings of his bass.
O. Cooper
Guitar/Backing vocals
Known for his keen sense of theory, tone, skill, and the ability to perform across multiple genres, OC has a passion for music that transcends boundaries. Hailing from Chicago, OC has performed in numerous successful rock, pop, punk, alternative, indie, and country bands, both on stage and in the studio. Having had the privilege to perform at many iconic Chicago venues including House of blues, City winery, Metro, Park west, and Soldier field, among others, he has also performed at numerous cultural events, festivals, and theatre pit orchestras throughout the Midwest and beyond. Now living in Florida, OC brings the same dedication to the music of Piano Rocket man that has earned him deep respect throughout his career.
Mike Schankman
Drums/Backing vocals
As a drummer, Michael has developed a reputation for blending technical skills with an undeniable groove. His ability to play authentically in different genres has allowed him to adapt seamlessly to various musical settings. Add the ability to provide spot on harmony vocals and you'll begin to see what has made him a sought-after performer for artists across the spectrum. Whether playing high-energy rock or laying down intricate beats in a jazz ensemble, Michael's drumming is characterized by precision and creativity. With over 4,000 shows under his belt, Mike continues to captivate listeners with his commanding presence behind the drums.
Mimi Schankman
Backing Vocals/Percussion
Mimi not only has a natural ear for harmonies she also has a powerful soulful voice and cheerful stage presence that will have you begging for more. She has performed consistently as the front lead for 12 years in the all-female bands Beaches and Jane Bond. In 2020, Mimi shared the stage with Patrick and Chris on an original project led and created by EMI recording artist Jeff Adams, where Mimi was recruited as a backup singer for the eight-piece ensemble. Now Mimi has joined forces again alongside her husband Mike to round out this incredible line up of talented musicians.
Ron Lorenzo
Saxophone/keyboard
