B.A, M.C.M., Lee University
M.M., University of Maryland
Piano Instructor
Coach-Accompanist, Lee University Opera Theatre
 

Perry Mears is an instructor of piano at Lee University, where he also coaches the Opera Theatre Workshop.  In addition, Mr. Mears maintains a private studio teaching studio in Cleveland, TN.  He has adjudicated competitions for the Georgia Governor’s School and the Virginia Music Teachers Association.  He has collaborated with many singers and instrumentalists, performing in venues such as the Arts Club of Washington D.C. and the Aspen Music Festival’s Harris Hall.  He has also accompanied singers in master classes with renowned artists Steven Blier and John Greer.  He recently completed his M.M. in Collaborative Piano at the University of Maryland, where he studied piano with Rita Sloan.  While at the UMD, Mr. Mears worked with the Maryland Opera Studio, coaching several shows including the workshop premiere of Kirke Mechem’s The Newport Rivals.  He received undergraduate and graduate degrees in piano and church music from Lee University where he studied piano with Michael Wittenburg and Phillip Thomas and conducting with David Horton.  Mr. Mears is an also alumnus of the Aspen Music Festival and School where he was part of the prestigious Collaborative Artist Program.  In the summer of 2008, Mr. Mears will join the musical staff of Ash Lawn Opera as the principal coach for their summer season.