Biography

Pianist Robert Carney has shown an increasing interest in performing music outside of the traditional canon. Recent programs have included works for piano by Corigliano, Liebermann, Messiaen, Sibelius, and lesser known works by the major composers. Solo performances in recent years have taken Robert to Colorado, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, and Texas. He has appeared as soloist with the Louisiana State University Orchestra and Missouri State University Orchestra. Competitive performances have yielded numerous top prizes including first place in the Janice K. Hodges Contemporary Piano Competition, first place in the Missouri Music Teachers Association State Competition, and special recognition as a Presser Scholar. In great demand as a collaborative pianist, Robert has appeared as accompanist in recitals with instrumentalists, vocalists, choirs, and other large ensembles throughout the Midwest, South, and the East Coast.

Originally from Kansas City, Robert’s interest in music was evident from an early age even though formal piano lessons did not begin until he was 13. His initial university studies took place at Missouri State University where he completed the Bachelor of Music degree in Piano Performance as a student of Peter Collins. While studying at MSU, Robert was recognized as a leader in the academic community by being appointed President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society and Vice President of Mu Phi Epsilon. Also during this time, Robert pursued further studies with Gabriel Chodos at the Aspen Music Festival and School in Colorado and Andrew Cooperstock at the Brevard Music Center in North Carolina. In 2002, Robert completed the Master of Music degree in Piano Performance from Louisiana State University as a student of Jennifer Hayghe. While at LSU, Robert was awarded competitive teaching and accompanying assistantships and the Richinse scholarship for piano. Additional lessons have been taken with Alan Chow from Northwestern University in Chicago and Frank Heneghan from Ireland. Continuing his studies, Robert is currently working towards the Doctorate of Musical Arts Degree at the University of North Texas as a student of Pamela Mia Paul.

A dedicated music educator, Robert currently maintains a large private studio in Fort Worth. With over ten years of teaching experience, Robert has taught students of all ages and abilities at the college and pre-college levels. He has taught courses in Music Appreciation and Functional Piano Skills at Louisiana State University and served on the faculty of North Central Texas College where he taught Music Appreciation. Robert was previously Coordinator of Instruction at a large private music school in the Dallas area where he taught private piano lessons for four years. While a student at UNT, Robert was a teaching assistant to Fred Kern. Robert's piano students consistently earn top honors at local piano competitions and festivals. Robert is in frequent demand as an adjudicator at local festivals and competitions.

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