Dolly Rappaport

Dolly's musical journey began in the cozy living room of her childhood home in Illinois, harmonizing with her family. Her natural affinity to melody and singing meant Dolly felt instant comfort pressed up against the family’s Steinway piano. This magical sense of joy led her to piano lessons at 6 years old, setting her on a lifetime journey of musical exploration. By high school graduation, Dolly won numerous awards and was inducted into Illinois’ Federation of Music Hall of Fame for classical piano. Following high school, she attended college at the University of Illinois, honed her craft, and graduated with the first-ever degree endorsed by the University that combined both classical and jazz genres, in piano performance.

Dolly’s passion for music extended beyond the piano very early in life. Notably, she was asked to play alto saxophone for her school band at age 10. From that age, she would find herself immersed, as a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, in various jazz groups, big bands, and Top-40 groups, evolving her love of performing during the college years. 

It was during this very creative span that she met her future husband and songwriting partner, Mitch Rappaport, sparking an inspired collaboration that would define their musical careers.

Relocating to California, getting married along the shores of Carmel, and starting a family, Dolly and Mitch juggled parenthood with their shared love for writing and producing music. Amidst the chaos of bringing up kiddos, they continued to write, produce, record and perform. 

Now, as they’ve reclaimed additional time beyond raising children, Dolly and Mitch find themselves back to tending and watering their musical roots, writing new lyrics and melodies, bringing together their talented musical tribe, which keeps their music collective and kids connected by their side. For Dolly & Mitch, it has always been a harmonious blend of family life with enduring enthusiasm and passion for telling stories. Dolly & Mitch reveal themselves through producing their original songbook, and capturing vocal and instrumental performances. 

Further insights into the creative collective they have built are easily explored through their prolific release of songs, Dolly’s artwork, and collaborative output with awesome artists and friends around the world!

Photo Credit: Maggie Vittori