Private Lessons - Paul Zeller

Paul Zeller

-

Piano -

Dr. Paul Zeller leads an active career as a performer, collaborator, and educator in his field. Lauded for his sensitive and lyrical pianism, Paul’s playing has been praised for his “impressive dynamic and tonal range,” “gorgeous voicing,” and “crystal clear textures.” Paul has performed with several world-renowned artists, including Danny Elfman and Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart. He has premiered new works by Pulitzer-nominated composer Carter Pann and British composers Christopher Norton and Ian Farrington, among others. Paul has appeared in concert halls across the country, including Carnegie Hall, Minnesota’s Orchestra Hall, and the Lied Center. A dedicated music educator, Paul teaches students of all ages and levels. Paul’s students are frequently recognized in regional and national competitions for the combination of expression and clarity in their playing. Resolute in his belief that the piano offers meaningful musical experiences for everyone, Paul enjoys working with students of every age and in both private and classroom settings. A consummate chamber musician, Paul has earned a reputation for leading and co-producing large-scale collaborative projects that span a wide range of events and musical styles. In 2019 Paul joined forces with conductor Rebecca Nederhiser to co-found Trace Chamber Society. This conducted chamber ensemble looks to the future by re-examining works from the past alongside newly commissioned pieces, tracing beauty and expression across history. Trace’s most recent projects include television and radio broadcasts with Nebraska Public Radio and a studio recording of newly commissioned music on the Blank House Media label. In 2020, Trace received special permission from the Copland estate to pursue original choreography of his Appalachian Spring Suite with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln dance program. Beyond his collaborative and educational work, Paul is deeply committed to helping his local music community thrive. Foremost in these efforts is a concert series Paul produced from 2021-2023, dedicated to creating impactful interactions between performers and audiences through live performance’s unique ability to motivate, inspire, and foster a sense of community. In addition to his own concert series, Paul has served on the boards of Lincoln Friends of Chamber Music, the Nebraska Music Teachers Association, and Lincoln Music Teachers Association. His other nonprofit work includes volunteering on AbendMusik’s Funds and Finance Committee and working in various capacities for the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, Nebraska Chamber Players, Lincoln Municipal Band, Nebraska Jazz Orchestra, and Capital Jazz Society. Paul holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is grateful to have studied under many influential teachers, including Mark Clinton, Roger McVey, Jay Hershberger, Brenda Wristen, Esti Sheinberg, Jovanni-Rey de Pedro, and Julian Martin.