Noted for his ability to play “with clarity and ease” (New York Concert Reviews), pianist Perry Mears performs regularly across the country as a soloist, accompanist, and chamber musician. Recent performances include a Carnegie Hall program of music by living American women, numerous college and university appearances, and collaborations with the Iowa Composers Forum, Luna Nova Music, Vocal Ensemble QC, and members of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Mears has worked on music faculties and creative teams around the world, from the mountains of East Tennessee to Zwickau, Germany, to small-town Iowa. Known for his commitment to new music, Dr. Mears has premiered and given early performances of many new works by contemporary composers, including Lisa Neher, Robert Patterson, Susan LaBarr, Armando Bayolo, Dan Lazarescou, and Kirke Mechem.

Dr. Mears has had the privilege of working with many outstanding teachers and coaches, including faculty members from the University of Maryland, where he received his DMA, and the University of Maryland, where he earned his MM under the tutelage of Rita Sloan. He is also an alumnus of the Aspen Music Festival and School where he was part of the prestigious Collaborative Artist Program and subsequently worked as the assistant to professor Sloan. His other musical mentors include Michael Wittenburg, David and Virginia Horton, Andrea Dismukes, and Phillip Thomas.

Perry lives in Bettendorf, Iowa, where he maintains a large private teaching studio of award-winning pianists and composers. He also teaches music history at St. Ambrose University, and serves as the music director for St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and it’s performing arts series, Music@St. Pete's. In the rare moments that he’s not teaching or performing, Perry enjoys doing puzzles of all shapes and sizes, cooking for his friends and family, and supporting his local public library.